Psalms 119:56

“This I had, because I kept thy precepts.”

1. Context of Psalm 119: Psalm 119 is the longest chapter in the book of Psalms and is known for its emphasis on the importance of God’s Word, His law, commandments, and precepts. It consists of 176 verses divided into sections according to the Hebrew alphabet, with each section focusing on a different aspect of God’s Word.

In verse 56, the psalmist proclaims, “This I had, because I kept thy precepts.” Here, the psalmist highlights the connection between keeping God’s precepts and receiving something valuable from God. By faithfully obeying and following God’s commandments, the psalmist experienced a specific blessing or benefit from the Lord.

2. The Significance of Keeping God’s Precepts: The term “precepts” refers to God’s commandments, teachings, or instructions. It signifies the moral and ethical guidelines set forth by God for His people to live by. God’s precepts are found in His Word, particularly in the laws given to the Israelites in the Old Testament, but they can be applied to believers in all generations.

The psalmist affirms that the reason for receiving something valuable from God is their commitment to keeping His precepts. Obedience to God’s Word is often linked with blessings throughout Scripture. When we align our lives with God’s commandments and walk in obedience, we position ourselves to receive His favor, guidance, protection, and spiritual growth.

3. Understanding “Precepts”: Psalm 119:56 serves as a reminder to believers of the importance of obedience to God’s Word. It encourages us to actively seek and follow God’s precepts, understanding that doing so brings blessings and favor from the Lord. As we read, study, meditate on, and apply God’s Word to our lives, we position ourselves to experience the abundant life and spiritual growth that He desires for us.

4. Obedience and Blessing: While the psalmist primarily refers to the Old Testament commandments and precepts, as Christians, we recognize that Jesus Christ fulfilled the law and gave us a new covenant. Through faith in Christ, we receive salvation, and the Holy Spirit enables us to walk in obedience to God’s commands (John 14:15). In Christ, we find the ultimate fulfillment of God’s precepts and the source of all blessings.

5. Application for Believers: The psalmist proclaims, “This I had, because I kept thy precepts.” Here, the psalmist highlights the connection between keeping God’s precepts and receiving something valuable from God. By faithfully obeying and following God’s commandments, the psalmist experienced a specific blessing or benefit from the Lord.

6. The Ultimate Fulfillment in Christ: Psalm 119:56 says: “This I had, because I kept thy precepts.”