Psalm 119 - Nun

In following God, there are times of peace and blessing. Those blessed times, however, are not constant, and sometimes there seems to be a lot of trouble in between the times of peace. The psalmist certainly found that to be true, and this stanza reveals the sustained difficulty under which he was living.

He states that he is "exceedingly afflicted" (v. 107).  His life is in continual danger (v. 109) because of the snare set for him by the wicked (v. 110). These are obviously not minor difficulties. Because of the menacing attacks, this man does not know how many more days he will live.

In spite of the challenges, the psalmist remains determined to follow God. "I have sworn and I will confirm it, that I will keep Your righteous ordinances" (v. 106). So far he has continued to walk in the right paths rather than going astray (vs. 109-110). He resolves to continue that faithful walk "to the end," however long that may be (v. 112).

Such a goal cannot be achieved by mere human strength and dedication. The psalmist speaks of his need for help. He needs revival from the Word of God (v. 107). He wants to continue to learn God's ways (v. 108). He must have God reveal to him what he needs to do.

That idea is presented well through the double metaphor that opens the stanza. In this well-known verse, the psalmist declares that God's Word is lamp for his feet and a light for his path. These are apt pictures. The man is walking in darkness - even in the valley of the shadow of death. When the situation around him is so dark, it would be difficult to see the right answer. The Word of God provides the answers as it illumines the path, giving clarity where there was none.

The light gives guidance in a trying time, and the possession of that light affects the man who has it. Because he knows guidance is available and answers are achievable, the psalmist is able to call God's Word "righteous" (v. 106). He is able to freely give offerings of praise to God (v. 108). He calls God's testimonies the "joy of my heart" (v. 111). In the midst of extreme difficulty, the psalmist can rejoice because he knows there is a source for the illumination he needs.

"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." Psalm 119:105 (NASB)