Psalms 119:135

“Make thy face to shine upon thy servant; and teach me thy statutes.”

1. The Context of Psalm 119: Psalm 119 is the longest chapter in the Bible and is known for its emphasis on the importance and value of God’s Word. It is an acrostic poem consisting of 22 stanzas, each corresponding to a letter of the Hebrew alphabet. Each stanza contains eight verses, and each verse within a stanza begins with the corresponding letter of the alphabet.

2. Understanding Psalm 119:135: In this verse, the psalmist makes a request to God, expressing a desire for His favour and instruction. The phrase “Make thy face to shine upon thy servant” signifies seeking God’s favour and blessings. It represents a longing for God’s presence and the manifestation of His favour in one’s life. The psalmist also asks God to teach him His statutes, indicating a desire for a deeper understanding and knowledge of God’s commandments and ways.

3. Seeking God’s Favour: The psalmist’s plea for God to make His face shine upon him reveals a desire for God’s favour and blessing. The shining of God’s face represents His divine favour and the manifestation of His presence in a person’s life. As believers, we should also seek God’s favour and blessings, desiring His guidance, protection, and provision in all aspects of our lives.

4. Seeking God’s Instruction: Alongside seeking God’s favour, the psalmist requests that God teach him His statutes. This demonstrates a hunger for God’s Word and a desire to understand and live according to His commandments. The psalmist acknowledges that true knowledge and wisdom come from God, and he seeks to gain a deeper understanding of God’s ways and precepts.

5. Application to Our Lives: Psalm 119:135 encourages us to seek God’s favour and instruction in our lives. We should desire His presence and blessings, recognizing that it is through His favour that we receive His guidance and provision. Additionally, we should strive to understand and obey God’s Word, recognizing it as the ultimate source of wisdom and instruction for our lives. Through prayer, studying the Scriptures, and relying on the Holy Spirit’s guidance, we can grow in our understanding of God’s statutes and align our lives with His will.