Psalms 119:6

“Then shall I not be ashamed, when I have respect unto all thy commandments.”

Context:Psalm 119 is the longest chapter in the Bible and is a beautiful hymn praising God’s Word, law, and commandments. The psalmist expresses his love for God’s instructions and seeks to live in obedience to them. Verse 6 specifically highlights the importance of having respect for all of God’s commandments.

The Meaning of “Not be Ashamed”: In this verse, being “ashamed” refers to the feeling of guilt or regret that arises from disobedience or failure to follow God’s commandments. The psalmist desires to live in such a way that he will not experience shame or remorse when reflecting on his obedience to God’s commands.

Having Respect for God’s Commandments: The psalmist declares that by having respect or regard for all of God’s commandments, he will not be ashamed. This shows the psalmist’s commitment to embracing God’s instructions with reverence and living in accordance with them.

The Significance of Respecting All Commandments: The phrase “all thy commandments” emphasizes the psalmist’s desire to honor and obey every aspect of God’s law, not selectively picking and choosing which commandments to follow. It reflects a wholehearted devotion to God’s Word and a willingness to submit to His authority in all areas of life.

Application: As believers, we can apply this verse to our lives by cultivating a deep respect and reverence for God’s commandments. This involves studying the Scriptures to understand God’s instructions, seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and intentionally living in obedience to His Word. By doing so, we can experience a sense of peace, assurance, and freedom from shame that comes from walking in God’s ways.

The Fulfillment in Christ: While the psalmist’s words primarily applied to the Old Testament context, as Christians, we see their fulfilment in Jesus Christ. Jesus said in Matthew 5:17, “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.” Through His perfect life, sacrificial death, and resurrection, Jesus fulfilled the requirements of the law on our behalf. When we have faith in Christ, the righteousness He accomplished becomes ours, and we are enabled by the Holy Spirit to live in obedience to God’s commandments.