Psalms 119:36

Incline my heart unto thy testimonies, and not to covetousness.

Psalms 119:36 (KJV)

Context

Psalm 119 is the longest chapter in the Bible, with 176 verses arranged in sections that follow the Hebrew alphabet. The psalmist repeatedly expresses love for God’s law and asks for help to live rightly. This verse is a prayer within that larger song of devotion.

Meaning

The prayer “Incline my heart” asks God to bend or direct the heart toward His testimonies, meaning His revealed commands and teachings. The psalmist knows the heart does not naturally turn to God, so he depends on divine grace to change its direction. He contrasts this with covetousness, a craving for wealth or what belongs to others. The request shows that true obedience begins with inner desire, not just outward action.

Biblical connections

This verse echoes the wider biblical truth that human desires need God’s reshaping. Jesus teaches in Matthew 6:21 that where a person’s treasure is, there the heart will also be. The psalmist prays for God to make His testimonies the treasure that draws the heart away from greed.

Application

Believers can make this verse their own daily prayer. Instead of only trying harder to resist greed, they can ask God to reorder their loves so that His Word becomes more desirable than possessions. This prayer acknowledges the constant battle for the heart and the need for God’s power to win it.

Reflection

Consider what most attracts your heart today. Ask God to turn it toward His testimonies, so that His wisdom shapes your choices and your desires honor Him.