UPDATED 2/12 13:30EST "v.38" Welcome! The following are highlights of each of the first 11 stanzas, half of the entire Psalm 119, or of the 13th Psalm of Book 5.

STANZA 1, Verses 1-8: HAPPINESS IS FOUND IN OBEDIENCE TO GOD.

TRUE HAPPINESS FOUND. Happiness depends on obedience to God's law, but only by exercising faith, or deep trust, in God, His word and His son, and the ransom provision for forgiveness of sins, with repentance. We must recall that Abraham's faith was "counted to him as righteousness," so we can develop a right standing with God, even while we have much to learn of God's right standards, endeavoring to keep them.

A few misunderstood terms found in verses 1-7 include these:

Verse 4 speaks of God's ORDERS to be "carefully kept." Recall Psalm 19:8 says "The ORDERS from Jehovah are righteous, causing the heart to rejoice." Clearly a command to do or avoid something, evidently with even more urgency or zeal than a command or commandment.

Verse 5 mentions observing God's REGULATIONS. These are defined as authoritative detailed rules or procedures, given to regulate or control an organization or system. It is most likely that when used in the plural in God's word, this may be translated as "INSTRUCTIONS," a much more familiar term.

Verse 7 mentions God's righteous JUDGMENTS. These are evaluations formed by discerning and comparing or contrasting. His evaluations and decisions should be respected and appreciated, and often much can be learned from them. They are "true, altogether righteous." (Psalm 19:9).

A REASONABLE LAW. Also key to the first stanza is that it is possible and reasonable to keep God's laws and standards. The first 4 verses thus read as follows: "Happy are those who are blameless in their way, Who walk in the law of Jehovah. 2 Happy are those who observe his reminders, Who search for him with all their heart. 3 They practice no unrighteousness; They walk in his ways. 4 You have commanded That your orders be carefully kept."

STANZA 2, Verses 9-16: BY GOD'S WORD A YOUTH CAN REMAIN MORALLY CLEAN OR PURE.

Verse 9 "How can a young man keep his path clean? BY keeping on guard according to your word.”

KEEPING ON GUARD. (9) Young children are often safeguarded by parents and other responsible ones from much of the spiritual filth or contamination that degrades the morality and spirituality of foolish and naive ones lacking the understanding and shrewdness or prudence to realize the danger of such things. Proverbs 22:3 says: "The shrewd one sees the danger and conceals himself, But the inexperienced keep right on going and suffer the consequences." As these precious children grow, they should be helped to gain enough prudence to be aware and cautious of spiritual pitfalls that are common in these "critical times hard to deal with." (2Timo 3:1). While loving people, they will still need to guard their associations from "bad company" that "corrupts good character." (1Cori 15:33, NIV; 2Timo 3:2-5). Thus, how can a young man keep his path clean? The answer is expressed this way in AMP: "By taking heed and keeping watch [on himself] according to Your word [conforming his life to it]." God's word, including the book of Proverbs, contains much divine instruction that can assist all to protect their spirit from ruin. May we treasure Christian teachings and guidance toward God's reward of eternal life, peace, and happiness!

Verse 11 "In my heart I treasure up your saying, so that I may not sin against you."

TREASURE GOD'S SAYINGS. (11) Jesus said, at Matthew 7:24, "“Therefore, everyone who hears these sayings of mine and does them will be like a discreet man who built his house on the rock." In God's word are found many motivating expressions helping us remain faithful to God, as we ponder them, endeavoring to see how to live by them each day. These sayings need to affect, not only our speech, but also our actions. It is not enough simply to know God's standards, we need to develop heart appreciation for them, perhaps with shrewdness to see the blessings and rewards of choosing the right course, and some of the problems and troubles caused by choosing poorly. Thus we can more readily "hate what is bad" and choose a good path. (Psalm 97:10; Prove 2:20-22).

STANZA 3, Verses 17-24: FONDNESS FOR GOD'S WORD VITAL FOR FAITHFULNESS.

Verse 18 "Open my eyes so that I may see clearly The wonderful things from your law."

SEE WONDERFUL, VALUABLE THINGS. (18) The psalmist recognizes that a person can be blind to the beautiful truths of God's word and law. This psalmist was likely a future king, and accepting a bribe, God's law stated, at Exodus 23:8 "blinds clear-sighted men and can distort the words of righteous men." Also, any form of idolatry, exalting anyone or anything above the place only God should occupy in our hearts, causes those having eyes not to see, a reference to hampered spiritual vision. (Psalm 115). And Paul eludes to this, in referring to those influenced by Satan's godship, at 2Corinthians 4:4, "among whom the god of this system of things has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, so that the illumination of the glorious good news about the Christ, who is the image of God, might not shine through." Therefore, may we not be fooled into underestimating the value or beauty of God's law, nor the rewards of adhering thereto. Eternal life in true peace and happiness is surely worth every effort to attain!

STANZA 4, Verses 25-32: WE CAN REMAIN FAITHFUL UNDER SEVERE TRIALS.

HELP TO ENDURE. We can remain faithful under the most trialsome circumstances. The inspired word of God says this, at 1Corinthians 10:13: "No temptation has come upon you except what is common to men. But God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear, but along with the temptation he will also make the way out so that you may be able to endure it."

Verse 25 "I lie prostrate in the dust. Preserve me alive according to your word."

EVEN FROM THE DUST. (25) He thus speaks as if "at the end of his rope." Nevertheless, He falls back on God and His promise to sustain him. It is faith, or deep trust and reliance upon God, that was "counted to [Abraham] as righteousness." One's name may have been brought into disrepute. Even if sins have been committed, forgiveness can be found. God can raise one up even from the dust. Psalm 55:22 says "Throw your burden on Jehovah, And he will sustain you. Never will he allow the righteous one to fall." May we continue trusting in Jehovah, seeking what is right. Psalm 34:19 says: "Many are the hardships of the righteous one, But Jehovah rescues him from them all."

Recall the theme for STANZA 5, verses 33-40:

WHOLE-HEARTED OBEDIENCE CAN BE (HAPPILY) CULTIVATED AND SUSTAINED OVER TIME.

Verses 34 and 37 contain some key thoughts on this theme, helping us to comprehend God's law and it's value, and hold to it. Verse 38 offers another hint as to the writer of Psalm 119. Here are the verses and their associated comments:

Verse 34 Give me understanding, So that I may observe your law And keep it with my whole heart.

UNDERSTANDING AND GODLY OBEDIENCE. (34) The psalmist recognizes the importance of the quality of understanding, when it comes to learning to fully obey Jehovah. Understanding involves seeing the big picture, along with all the individual pieces that make it up, and how they all interconnect to make the whole. This is vital, for instance, when learning to operate a motor vehicle. There are many principles and traffic laws that must be learned, that together make it possible to safely navigate the roadways among fellow drivers. Without understanding how these many laws work together, there would be chaos and confusion. People often grow in understanding as they thus learn to drive properly. God is honored by our respect for such laws. We should also learn such laws, not only for our own benefit, but out of love and respect for our neighbors, with interest in their safety. With such motives, it is possible to observe God's law with our "whole heart." Such laws will then most likely affect our actions and reactions, as we truly seek to obey and honor God from the heart.

Verse 37 Turn my eyes away from looking at what is worthless; Preserve me alive in your way.

DISCERNMENT AND GODLY OBEDIENCE. (37) This verse shows an important consideration to maintaining godly obedience--being careful what we give attention to, especially what we choose to look at. We need the quality of discernment to judge between something of value spiritually and something "worthless." This quality helps us discern between right and wrong, true and false, good and bad, wise and unwise, and between more important matters and those less so but still required. We might add: between things of great value and those of less or no value. How would you value a close relationship with God? How about eternal life in true peace and happiness, and that of your loved ones and friends? Of course, the latter depends upon the former. Hopefully you've come to value both highly. If so, we should have no problem turning away from things that undermine what we treasure most, choosing instead the things in harmony with God's right ways and standards. In this way we act in harmony with the psalmist's plea to be 'preserved alive in God's own way.' If you don't yet feel close to God, pray to Him more, with faith, or deep trust in Him and His desire to reward you for your loyalty. (Hebre 11:6). Confidently ask him for things you truly need, and experience His hand of assistance in your life, while you read His word for His guidance. In this way, "Draw close to God, and He will draw close to you..." (James 4:8).

Recall the theme for STANZA 6, verses 41-48:
LOYAL DEVOTION TO GOD REFINES OUR INTEGRITY AND STRENGTHENS OUR HOPE.

In addition to verse 41, verses 44 and 47 also underscore this theme. They read: "I will keep your law constantly, Forever and ever... I am fond of your commandments, Yes, I love them."

Verse 41 May I experience your loyal love, O Jehovah, Your salvation in harmony with your promise.

CULTIVATE AFFECTION FOR JEHOVAH. (41) The psalmist thus shows that God's love for us would certainly move Him to bring us salvation in His judgment, in harmony with many such promises in His word. Psalm 91, evidently written by Moses, says this in verses 14-16: "God said: “Because he has affection for me, I will rescue him. I will protect him because he knows my name. 15 He will call on me, and I will answer him. I will be with him in distress. I will rescue him and glorify him. 16 I will satisfy him with long life, And I will cause him to see my acts of salvation.” All this because of our affectionate love for Jehovah, shown by our loyal obedience to Him (1John 5:3). Such an attachment to God personally, a close relationship with Him, moves Jehovah to respond loyally in return. "Draw close to God and He will draw close to you..." says James 4:8. Accordingly, our hope of salvation is thereby strengthened.

Recall the theme for STANZA 7, verses 49-56:

GOD'S LAW AND WORD OF PROMISE ARE RELIABLE AND TRUSTWORTHY.

Verses 49, 50 and 56 especially help us appreciate this truth, as the psalmist experienced it for himself. These verses read: "Remember your word to your servant, Through which you give me hope. This is my comfort in my affliction, For your saying has preserved me alive...(In reference to keeping God's law:) This has been my practice Because I have observed your orders." Note here comments for verses 49 and 56.

Verse 49: Remember your word to your servant, Through which you give me hope.

WORDS OF PROMISE, HOPE. (49) This likely future king evidently received a word of promise from Jehovah, which helped to sustain him through difficult times. Of course, God's word the Bible is filled with hope-inspiring promises from God. Hope is vital to all, and God is eager for people to look to Him with hope in His blessing and salvation by seeking faithfulness to Him. In fact, a primary reason God's word the Bible has been provided to humans is that "we might have hope." Romans 15:4 says: "For all the things that were written beforehand were written for our instruction, so that through our endurance and through the comfort from the Scriptures we might have hope." After Adam's sin, it took Jehovah almost no time at all to provide hope to the human family of a restoration of God's purpose, with the prophecy recorded in Genesis 3:15. Thus Jehovah is keenly aware of our need for this. May we likewise be quick to provide comfort to one lacking hope, if only they may turn to the God of hope, Jehovah. Psalm 146:5 says "Happy is the one who has the God of Jacob as his helper, Whose hope is in Jehovah his God."

The psalmist strove to keep God's law, and accordingly said this, in verse 56: "This has been my practice Because I have observed your orders."

PUTTING JEHOVAH FIRST. (56) Observing God's orders cause "the heart to rejoice," as God gives us rewarding activities to focus our attention on to help accomplish His will. (Psalm 19:8). It is as David sang at Psalm 23:5-6 "...My cup is well-filled. 6 Surely goodness and loyal love will pursue me all the days of my life, And I will dwell in the house of Jehovah for all my days." The psalmist made it a practice to do the things necessary to maintain his hold on God's law, because he followed God's orders, and these helped him to maintain soundness of mind, keeping his priorities straight in life. When we put God first in life, doing as He instructs, other things seem to fall into place--we're able to get more accomplished than we may realize. Philippians 4:13 says "For all things I have the strength through the one who gives me power." And in reference to the order for Christians to share divine light, God's word mentions, at 2Corinthians 4:7 "However, we have this treasure ["the glorious knowledge of God"] in earthen vessels, so that the power beyond what is normal may be God’s and not from us." May we thus diligently seek God's commands through Christ, relying upon God for the power to keep them, assisting us in drawing close to God and proving a blessing to fellow humans.

The theme for stanza 8, verses 57-64, is this:

CLOSENESS TO GOD AND DIVINE FAVOR WORTH EVERY EFFORT TO MAINTAIN.

Verse 58, 63, and 64 especially underscore this theme, as we see the value of having God's blessing, and the joys of serving Jehovah alongside others who love, obey, and greatly respect Him. Verses 58 and 63 with remarks follow:

Verse 58: I appeal to you with all my heart; Show me favor according to your promise.

COMPLETE LOVE FOR GOD, THEN OTHERS. (58) The psalmist makes every effort to please His God, to receive His favor and approval, appealing to Him "with all [his] heart." This may remind you of Jesus' designation of the greatest commandments of the Law, as revealed at Matthew 22:37-40: "He said to him: “‘You must love Jehovah your God with your whole heart and with your whole soul and with your whole mind.’38 This is the greatest and first commandment. 39 The second, like it, is this: ‘You must love your neighbor as yourself.’ 40 On these two commandments the whole Law hangs, and the Prophets.” As important as it is to love people, here we see loving God takes priority. Jehovah God has the greatest capacity for love, it being His greatest quality. (1John 4:8). It is Jehovah's part in a marriage that can make it a steadfast bond, not easily broken, as Ecclesiastes 4:12 states: "And someone may overpower one alone, but two together can take a stand against him. And a threefold cord cannot quickly be torn apart." Thus the greatest love one can show to his or her spouse is by helping one another be loyal and faithful to God. Then, by God's command, they should love one another, becoming "one flesh." (Genes 2:24).

Verse 63 I am a friend of all who fear you And of those who keep your orders.

GENUINE PEACE AND LOVE CAN FLOURISH--HOW? (63) Here is another joy of loving God first and serving Him faithfully--we may find delightful association with others who are equally devoted to Jehovah, holding to His standards. The genuine fear of God is not a morbid one--while respecting His greatness and power, we fear displeasing or hurting Him, wanting nothing to hinder His love. Thus, godly fear and love are spoken of together in the Scriptures. (Deute 10:12; Psalm 103:11). It is ONLY by the united loyalty to Jehovah God that genuine peace and love can flourish, having His support and blessing! Proverbs 10:22 reminds us: "It is the blessing of Jehovah that makes one rich, And He adds no pain with it." Psalm 133:1 expresses the result, in saying: "Look! How good and how pleasant it is For brothers to dwell together in unity!" Together, we treasure loyalty and faithfulness to God, shown by our obedience. God's son, Jesus, likewise revealed the way to genuine peace and love. (John 14:6).

The theme for STANZA 9, verses 65-72, is this, along with selected verse commentary:

GOD’S DISCIPLINE IS GOOD FOR US, HELPING US TREASURE HIS PRICELESS LAW.

Verse 68: You are good and your works are good. Teach me your [instructions].

GOD'S WORKS PROVEN GOOD! (68) Thus, Jehovah’s works are in harmony with His personality—they are a manifestation of His great love, wisdom, power, and sense of justice. His primary quality, according to His word, is love. While God HAS the other qualities, it is only love that He IS. (1John 4:8,16). Therefore, we can expect His works, past, present, and future to primarily manifest this quality. Can we not see this in God’s works of creation? The way humans have been made ‘in God’s image,’ to be able to think, reason, draw conclusions, work with our hands, move with our feet, laugh, and enjoy living—can we not appreciate our Great Designer? How much work would teams of scientists and engineers have to do to design and create a robot that could do all the things humans are capable of doing? Could it really just come about by chance? What about all that went into the animal creation, with the delightful experiences of watching kittens or puppies at play, seeing squirrels or other acrobatic creatures amaze us with their feats of skill, witnessing a bird’s talented flight or listening to birdsong? What about the sights and aromas of beautiful flowers or blossoming trees in springtime? Then being able to share such times with friends and loved ones, delighting in conversation over meals and other enjoyable activities—can our appreciation and love for God not continue to grow as we contemplate His innumerable kindnesses manifested toward the human family? Yes, Jehovah is good and His works are good! Like the psalmist, may we thus be moved to willingly learn from God even His detailed guidance for us, that we may know how to live and support the doing of His will and good purpose.

Verse 71: It is good that I have been afflicted, So that I may learn your [instructions].

THE PROTECTION OF GOD'S LAW. (71) Similar to verse 67, the psalmist looks back on times of difficulty, as disciplining him toward godly obedience. He came to recognize God’s law as a protection from the stain and pain of wrong conduct. He learned God’s detailed instructions, or guidance, that he might keep it, finding and maintaining God’s approval, favor, and blessing. Happily, Jehovah can forgive past error, even making such mistakes “white like snow.” (Isaiah 1:18). Still, there can be consequences that ones have to live with for serious transgressions, just as David suffered many family troubles for his sins. How much better to appreciate God’s goodness, accepting His loving correction to begin with, choosing to live in accord with His standards!

Verse 72: The law that you have proclaimed is good for me, More so than thousands of pieces of gold and silver.

PRICELESS WISDOM OVER MONEY. (72) Here the stanza is summed up with an evaluation of God’s law—truly priceless! The psalmist has shown over several stanzas the benefits of keeping it whole-heartedly—remaining in a close relationship with God, and usually being respected by many God-fearing persons. He recognized God’s law as good, not just for others, but for him personally, moving him to value it more than money. Ecclesiastes 7:12 says “The advantage of knowledge is this: Wisdom preserves the life of its owner.” Money, while necessary, cannot buy eternal life or true happiness, as God’s word clarifies. Therefore may we come to see what is of greatest value in life, and refuse to let others convince us otherwise!

The theme for all of stanza 10, verses 73-80, is:

SUBMISSION TO GOD'S DISCIPLINE PLACES US IN HIS HANDS TO EXPERIENCE HIS FAITHFULNESS.

Verse 75: I know, O Jehovah, that your judgments are righteous And that you have afflicted me in your faithfulness.

GOD'S LOVING CORRECTION. (75) The psalmist was a likely king or future king, and thus perhaps came under more of God’s discipline than most, needing refinement to carry out the will of God fully. Likewise, those receiving sonship to rule with Christ also need more of God’s loving correction to guide them in receiving their privileged reward from God. Anointed Hebrew Christians at one time were evidently focusing too much on any problems, as Paul sought to correct their view, stating at Hebrews 12:5-6: “5 And you have entirely forgotten the exhortation that addresses you as sons: “My son, do not belittle the discipline from Jehovah, nor give up when you are corrected by him; 6 for those whom Jehovah loves he disciplines, in fact, he scourges everyone whom he receives as a son.” The psalmist thus felt he was experiencing difficulties that God at least permitted, yet he saw God’s faithfulness in His dealings with him. He knew God’s judgments were righteous, and he could endure in faithfulness, learning from his experiences to observe God’s law fully.

The theme for stanza 11, verses 81-88, is:

GOD'S RELIABLE ORDERS HELP PRESERVE US THROUGH PERIODS OF PERSECUTION.

Verse 81: I long for your salvation, For your word is my hope.

GREATEST AUTHORITY--JEHOVAH GOD. (81) At Matthew 5:10 Jesus said: "“Happy are those who have been persecuted for righteousness’ sake, since the Kingdom of the heavens belongs to them." Proverbs 17:26 says: "To punish the righteous one is not good, And to flog honorable people goes against what is right." Being persecuted, or harassed with harmful desire, for one's keeping integrity to God, faithfully following His orders, is highly displeasing to the Greatest Authority, Jehovah God. He says, regarding His true servants, "Whoever touches you touches the pupil of my eye." (Zecha 2:8). Yet we should humbly endure wrongs without seeking vengenace, respecting the admonition from God, at Romans 12:19, "Do not avenge yourselves, beloved, but yield place to the wrath; for it is written: “‘Vengeance is mine; I will repay,’ says Jehovah.” Jehovah can see the motives of all, and judge most appropriately according to each person, in due time. Still, we should endure with hope of salvation, trusting in God's word of wisdom and promise. The loving way we cope may in time cause onlookers to turn to the God of love and hope, Jehovah. Regardless, Jehovah knows what is best for all, and He can "make the way out in order for you to be able to endure it." (1Cori 10:13). Isaiah 25:8 promises: "He will swallow up death forever, And the Sovereign Lord Jehovah will wipe away the tears from all faces. The reproach of his people he will take away from all the earth, For Jehovah himself has spoken it." Let's look forward to such a blessing for all who may become Christian servants of God!

Verse 84: How many days must your servant wait? When will you bring judgment against those persecuting me?"

GOD'S JUDGMENT, WILL & POWER TO ACT. (84) Notice the faith of the psalmist in God's judgment, will, and power to act in his behalf. IT was not IF he could bring judgment, but WHEN He would do so. May this move wrongdoers to turn around from their evil works before God's judgment arrives, coming to know God's love, that they may receive of God's abundant mercy, and have hope of spiritual and eternal life. May this move all of us to continue to hope in God, drawing closer to Him, and seek to live by His standards, in harmony with 2Peter 2:9-10, stating: "So, then, Jehovah knows how to rescue people of godly devotion out of trial, but to reserve unrighteous people to be destroyed on the day of judgment, 10 especially those who seek to defile the flesh of others and who despise authority." Such latter ones need urgently to turn from wrongdoing and seek God's face, pleading for His help to change their thinking, habits, and ways. This can be done, but not in one's own strength. Regarding even with Jesus' apostles gaining salvation, Jesus said to them "intently," at Matthew 19:26: "With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible." The same powerful holy spirit God used to create the universe, can be of assistance to help humans acquire "power beyond what is normal" to make necessary changes to please God more fully. (2Cori 4:7). May we pray for God's holy spirit, which He gives to "those asking Him" and to those "obeying Him as ruler." (Luke 11:13; Acts 5:32).

Verse 87: They almost exterminated me from the earth, But I did not abandon your orders.

GOD'S ORDERS, RELIANCE ON HIM. (87) By concentrating on God's most serious and urgent commands, we may be protected from possible spiritual harm. The psalmist was even guarded from extermination. Let us prayerfully rely on Jehovah during such times, knowing of faithful men and women throughout history who faced similar trials (Hebrews 11-12).

May we thus come to appreciate God's discipline and it's many benefits, placing ourselves in His hands of faithfulness by looking to Him and His word and law to guide and protect us spiritually through good times and periods of difficulty.