Psalm 119 - Vav

This stanza reveals how the quest to walk in God's ways begins to affect the way the psalmist lives his life. He is becoming aware of potential changes and differences that will come in some fundamental areas as he receives the lovingkindness and salvation promised according to God's Word (v. 41). That lovingkindness will lead to the results listed in the following verses.

First, the psalmist will know what to say. When others reproach him, he won't be left helpless or speechless. He will have an answer, and that answer will be based on the Word of God (v. 42). When he speaks, he will be able to speak the truth, because his words will be based on God's words (v. 43). Even in intimidating situations, he will still know and be able to speak the truth (v. 46). The psalmist expects to enjoy this facility with his speech because of his confidence in the Word as he trusts in it (v. 42).

Second, the psalmist will be able to walk at liberty. As he receives God's lovingkindness, he will be able to keep God's law. He will be able to keep the law forever, because the law is dependable (v. 44). Therefore, he will always know the right thing to do. This consistency will give a level of liberty, as he will not have to battle with mysteries or constantly changing expectations (v. 45). With his reliance in the Word, he will not have the pressure of having to determine on his own the right thing to do.

Third, the psalmist will have guidance for his thoughts. His meditation on the Word means that his mind is constantly filled with God's thoughts. This meditation is actually what will prepare him with the right words to say and stabilize him with the knowledge of what to do. The meditation will also have an impact on his spirit. It will cause him to fall in love with the Word and to delight in it (vs. 47-48). This positive spirit will impact his everyday life.

With his trust in the Word which he has received through God's lovingkindness, the psalmist will be able to handle his words correctly, walk in liberating confidence, and maintain spiritual thoughts and a positive spirit. His dependence on the Word will have a noticeable effect on the way he lives life. In each of these areas, trust in the Word of God as the foundation will give stability and assurance as the psalmist operates based on truth. This truth is an anchor far more reliable than his own thoughts, instincts, or opinions.

"May Your lovingkindness also come to me, O LORD, Your salvation according to Your word." Psalm 119:41 (NASB)