Psalms 119:171
“My lips shall utter praise when thou hast taught me thy statutes.”
Context of Psalm 119:Psalm 119 is the longest chapter in the Bible, consisting of 176 verses. It is a remarkable acrostic poem divided into twenty-two stanzas, with each stanza corresponding to a letter of the Hebrew alphabet. This psalm is centred around the theme of the importance of God’s law, testimonies, precepts, statutes, and commandments. It expresses the psalmist’s deep love for and commitment to God’s Word.
The heart of the verse:Psalm 119:171 expresses the psalmist’s response to God’s instruction and teaching. The psalmist declares that his lips will overflow with praise when God has taught him His statutes.
Recognition of divine instruction:The verse begins with the acknowledgment that God is the source of instruction. The psalmist recognizes that it is God who imparts knowledge and understanding concerning His statutes. This implies that God’s Word is not just a set of rules or laws but a profound source of wisdom and guidance for life.
The result:Praise and gratitude: The psalmist declares that in response to God’s teaching, his lips will utter praise. The psalmist’s heart is filled with gratitude and awe for God’s statutes and the understanding he has gained through them. This response of praise is a natural overflow of the psalmist’s heart, recognizing the goodness and faithfulness of God in revealing His truth.
Importance of God’s Word:This verse underscores the significance of God’s Word in the life of a believer. The psalmist’s desire to praise God stems from a deep understanding and appreciation of God’s statutes. The psalmist realizes that true knowledge and understanding of God’s Word lead to a heartfelt response of worship and adoration.
Application for believers:As believers today, we can learn from the psalmist’s example. When we study and meditate on God’s Word, seeking His guidance and wisdom, we are invited into a deeper understanding of His statutes. This understanding should lead us to heartfelt praise and thanksgiving. Recognizing the transformative power of God’s Word in our lives, we should respond by worshiping Him with our lips and expressing gratitude for His teachings.
