Psalms 119:70

“Their heart is as fat as grease, but I delight in thy law.”

Psalm 119:70 (KJV):

“Their heart is as fat as grease, but I delight in thy law.”

Context:Psalm 119 is the longest chapter in the Bible and is a beautiful expression of devotion to God’s Word. It consists of 176 verses divided into 22 stanzas, each starting with a different letter of the Hebrew alphabet. This particular verse, 70, is found in the stanza Ayin, which corresponds to the letter ‘O’ in English.

The contrast between the wicked and the psalmist:The verse begins with a contrast between the hearts of the wicked and the psalmist. The psalmist describes the hearts of the wicked as “fat as grease.” This metaphor suggests that their hearts are hardened, insensitive, and indulgent. Their hearts are filled with worldly desires and pleasures.

Delighting in God’s law:Despite the wickedness and indulgence of others, the psalmist declares his delight in God’s law. “Thy law” refers to God’s commandments, teachings, and principles revealed in the Scriptures. The psalmist finds joy, satisfaction, and nourishment in God’s Word.

Significance of delighting in God’s law:The psalmist’s delight in God’s law is significant for several reasons:

• a) Spiritual nourishment:Just as physical food provides nourishment to the body, God’s Word nourishes the soul. By delighting in God’s law, the psalmist finds sustenance for his spiritual life.
• b) Connection with God:Delighting in God’s law demonstrates a deep connection with the Lord. It indicates a desire to know and obey God’s will. The psalmist’s delight in God’s law reflects his love for God and a commitment to follow His ways.
• c) Source of guidance:God’s law serves as a guide for the psalmist’s life. By finding delight in God’s Word, the psalmist seeks direction, wisdom, and understanding to navigate life’s challenges and make godly choices.
• d) Counteracting worldly influences:The contrast between the wicked and the psalmist highlights the importance of resisting worldly influences. While the wicked indulge in sinful pleasures, the psalmist finds his delight in God’s law, choosing a different path.

Application for believers today:Psalm 119:70 encourages believers to examine their own hearts and priorities. It challenges us to ask ourselves if we find delight in God’s Word or if our hearts have become hardened and preoccupied with worldly pursuits. Here are some practical applications:

• a) Prioritize God’s Word:Make time for reading, studying, and meditating on Scripture regularly. Allow God’s Word to shape your thoughts, attitudes, and actions.
• b) Seek spiritual nourishment:Just as physical food is necessary for our physical well-being, spiritual nourishment from God’s Word is essential for our spiritual growth. Find joy and satisfaction in God’s Word as it feeds and strengthens your faith.
• c) Cultivate a heart for God:Develop a deep love for God and a desire to follow His ways. Choose to delight in His commandments and seek His guidance in every area of your life.
• d) Guard against worldly influences:Be aware of the worldly temptations and influences that can lead you away from God’s Word. Choose to resist them and focus on the truth and wisdom found in Scripture.

In summary, Psalm 119:70 contrasts the hearts of the wicked with the psalmist’s delight in God’s law. It highlights the importance of finding joy, nourishment, and guidance in God’s Word and encourages believers to prioritize Scripture, seek spiritual nourishment, cultivate a heart for God, and guard against worldly influences.