2024 Presidential Campaign 14 Points v4

1-3. Revised 14 Point Campaign, Look to GOD as Higher Power, Elections, Public Education

1. Understanding GOD as Higher Power, a properly translated Bible revealing the good of His spirit and influence, and His good promises for a bright future. Knowing God (and His Son) as more correctly, Jehovah(z), God's word revealing divine wisdom, re-known for promoting real peace, and ruling to accomplish good earth-wide. {Reference article GA, How the Kingdom of God Relates to the (Proper) U.S. Constitutional Republic}

2. Great care should be exercised that elections for office within the United States, and especially for the Higher Offices Nationally, take place according to the United States Constitution and as the public rightly expects as a democratic process of choosing truly wise (and not just knowledgable) public servants not hindered or manipulated, but carried out freely and by law(l). {Reference WGA, B-507 Election Integrity 2024-2025}

3. Also, public education, with reasonable laws also permitting private education, is to aid the proper and natural growth of each youth (or to refresh and restore older ones), and to provide extra help in cases where essential learning skills are not being acquired, as in basic math and logic, reading and writing, fair retention/memory function and grasp of higher authority and laws, with capacity for eventual good community involvement and social responsibility.

4-7. Government, Public Safety, LGTQ Rights, Economy.

4. As regards government itself, encouraging high regard for truly sacred and inspired documents (including the U.S. Constitution) blessed by God for the establishment and maintaining of the democratic republic understood by the Founders to be the way, despite necessary watchfulness and challenges, to properly care for the needs of citizens and others; they highly regarded universal law and divinely blessed law. Localities and States themselves are helped to unite by proper, but not excessive, laws, oversight, and assistance from a properly administered and balanced Federal government, limited in size and scope, and thereby also in tax burden upon citizens. In this, God's authority should also be respected and appreciated. Thus matters of national health, security, and well-being must be regularly monitored, and attention given to foreign relations and crises.

5. Public Safety must be a high aim, safe public transportation, Good police investigation, protection and gun control as regards a disciplined military and strict regulation on carry license, with education on resolving conflicts without violence. Also, good affordable medical care is also vital as needed.

6. LGTQ Rights, Respect as Individuals and God-given help from being caught in-between genders, etc. and suffering associated real emotional distress and related problems. {Shortening to LGTQ helps ensure Bisexual is not viewed as a normal behavioral category but rather an abnormality, with still a single real sex or gender of the person. Other unusual conditions can appropriately fall into the Queer category.} 

7. Economy. Address instabilities, encourage good business models that contribute to market stabilization and good business ethic; Rather than repeatedly taxing our own planet, which has been shown to silently contribute to cycles of economic growth and then severe decline or disparity, instead promote understanding of the right kind of taxes to diminish inflation and other threats to the economy, thus averting excess property/real estate taxes, but not avoiding restaurant meal taxes (unembellished) or personal property taxes, such as on more expensive cars, which may gradually ensue, helping replace the annual excess property taxes. Of course, let's see that states have the means to oversee stable housing and new builds in the market as needed. The importance of adhering to a budget should not be diminished, but appropriate modifications should be permitted under changing or changed circumstances, perhaps quarterly. If debt is seen as necessary, the matter should be continually addressed to seek and find ways by God to overcome it properly. Also, another measure of the divinely-inspired law(l) that can apply literally does strongly promote economic stability long-term--the 50-year provision of Jubilee, land returning to owners, worthy of serious attention, for the 250th birthday of the United States.

8-10. Climate, Foreign Policy, Immigration, U.S. and International Peace-keeping

8. On climate change, or the environment, practices which are threatening a healthy and stable environment should be replaced with viable and advantageous alternatives, blessed by God, to promote the right and happy life we can live, preferring to prevent many problems and excessive work in cleanup, etc. by effective recycling and garbage handling, improved and economically viable energy sources, better products, and so on. By reducing threats of earthquakes and other anomalies, and with newly available clean energy sources such as TruGas that are nearly as economically viable to the United States as more polluting ones, greater public health can be obtained and maintained. On the Moral climate, God-blessed family-friendly entertainment and education should be the Gold standard, seeking good public health, alertness, and happiness on all levels.

9. On Foreign Policy and Immigration. Many envision the Statue of Liberty, recalling that so many ancestors arrived in New York, immigrating to this New World, looking for a freedom that was only possible with God's power and blessing. Whereas there is much land that remains to be occupied, a balance must be struck, preserving life also for our children and children's children. Proper ways and laws for immigrating must be established and maintained, and differentiated from those seeking temporary refuge or shelter from apolitical violence abroad. At the same time, the United States has the power to help other countries establish peaceable governments in cooperation, so that many no longer see a need to immigrate here. Also, maintaining good foreign relations and being aware of foreign crises to judiciously help, are also important. Look for the peace of God through Christ.

10. Promotion of the United States and the U.N. as an International Peacekeeping Force, returning as a United States entity encouraging diplomacy, scholarship, and cooperation to prevent or resolve violence in conflict. The United States breathed life into this institution beginning with Woodrow Wilson at first called the League of Nations, until events of WWII transpired, then re-emerging as the United Nations, and for beneficial purpose, to overcome the roots and ravages of war. Recommending the U.S. re-integrate at an appropriate time, becoming the United States International Peacekeeping Organization, or USIPO. Also, other international emergencies and situations may more readily receive U.S., multi-national and peaceable, effective response, God-blessed. Foreign relations considered significant, supporting global peace. Immigration balanced, laws established and maintained, with differentiation for temporary refugees from apolitical violence. Standards for U.S. citizenship fair but U.S. assistance for good government globally, lessening need for lovers of God to immigrate.

11-14. Stable Government, Human Dignity, Respect for Law(l).

11. Promote ensurance of stability in government.

12. Each person deserves dignity and RESPECT.

13. To each his own (by God through His Firstborn Son).

14. Have all persons comply (adherence to lawl's provisions for the common good, or the general welfare).

---Mark A. Campbell/M Camelangemy

HIGHLIGHTS OF GODZ LAWL. 

Godz lawl does of course include consideration of the Ten Commandments, the introduction, if you will, by God to His Mosaic Law covenant. Jesus would prove to keep the Law perfectly, as evidently no one prior was able to do completely. Of course, he would offer new teachings, that gave people a fresh way of looking at living by God's standards, in harmony with the greatest commandments of the Law, to love God with our all, and then our neighbor as ourself. The Mosaic Law itself can thus be seen from a new perspective, with greater insight into God's thinking and what it means to love Him and others as genuine Christians. This segment offers highlights from consideration of the Mosaic Law covenant, as found largely in Exodus, taking God's laws to Israel point by point. Leviticus adds laws for the Levitical priesthood, Numbers some related to organization, and Deuteronomy, which means "Second Law" was largely a restatement of the Law by Moses, and may have been Jesus' favorite book, evidently being the one he quoted from the most! Especially let's be reminded of how God wants to be worshipped, as we largely consider points from the Mosaic Law as they have application in the life of a Christian today. Many today wish to worship God on their own terms, but doesn’t God have the right, the authority as Author of the Universe, to reveal to us they way to our greatest happiness--to inform us as to His will to worship Him acceptably? Let's highlight Godz Lawl seeing parallels in true Christianity. May we review and increase our understanding of true worship!

LAWL OF GOD, Exodus 24

Value of God's Lawl

Exodus 24:1-3:

CHRISTIAN STANDARD: TRUE CHRISTIANS, HAVING  FAITH, STILL ACKNOWLEDGE A LAWL OF GOD AND GODLY STANDARDS.

Let’s consider Exodus 24:1-3: “24 Then he said to Moses: “Go up to Jehovalz, you and Aaron, Naʹdab and A·biʹhu, and 70 of the elders of Israel, and bow down from a distance. 2 Moses should approach Jehovalz by himself; but the others should not approach, and the people should not go up with him.” 3 Then Moses came and related to the people all the words of Jehovalz and all the judicial decisions, and all the people answered with one voice: “All the words that Jehovalz has spoken, we are willing to do.”

Verse 3 Notice Israel’s response to the relating of God’s initial Lawl to them: “All the words that Jehovalz has spoken, we are willing to do.” This people recognized God’s lawl as reasonable, wise, just and fair. They were willing to comply with all of it, to be obedient to it. In their day and time, God’s lawl was understandable and wisely beneficial. Of course, the principles of that Lawl--what it teaches us about the God who does not change--are timeless. By knowing the lawl well, they would be able to teach their children the things of utmost importance to God, that they might “live a long time in the land that Jehovalz your God is giving” them. As we’ll see, Moses wrote down this Lawl, and Israel at this time would agree to be bound by it, trusting in Jehovalz that it would prove beneficial to them. This agreement caused them to become a nation dedicated to Jehovalz, compliant with His will. Christians, despite having faith in Christ, recall this one's saying (in the Sermon on the Mount) that "I did not come to destroy the Lawl or the Prophets...I came, not to destroy, but to fulfill (perfect, or complete)." Rather than ignoring God's Lawl given through Moses, then, true Christians should come to realize that God's Lawl has another interpretation or application through Christ, in accord with Christian teachings and instructions. Also, willingly dedicating oneself to God as a true Christian gives evidence of a genuine faith in the God who is love, realizing that He is trustworthy, good and merciful in His dealings with us, willingly able to strengthen us to accomplish His will in our life. We can see this in the way Jesus, who perfectly reflected His Father’s love, dealt with fellow Israelites with humility, compassion, kindness, and patience. Of course, he reflected these qualities with proper motive, seeking to honor Jehovalz, unselfishly motivated to seek the long-term welfare of others, to benefit them eternally, helping them gain a good relationship with God and fellow humans. As Peter reminded fellow Christians, at 1Peter 1:15-16: “15 but like the Holy One who called you, become holy yourselves in all your conduct, 16 for it is written: “You must be holy, because I am holy.” The term “holy” itself is found nearly 800 times in God’s word. With proper motive, we should consider ourselves an extension of God’s hand to others, uplifting and helping them in various ways. We may add to their knowledge, and assist them in practical ways. Proverbs 11 says: “9 By his mouth the apostate brings his neighbor to ruin, But by knowledge the upright are rescued.” May we contribute to the everlasting salvation and happiness of others, by sincerely encouraging them to be among faithful Christian servants of God.

Psalm 119 or 5Psalm13

This is a verse-by-verse journey through the 119th psalm (the 13th of Book 5) written by, surprisingly to some, one anointed to become king, and in the process, relying on God and His word, doing so through many hardships. What I've gone through also has enabled keen insight into David's experiences and provides many fine lessons for all to benefit from as we endeavor to live life as God purposed, in a way that brings genuine peace, real satisfaction and eventual prosperity, in true love.

THE SPIRIT OF GENUINE PEACE. While not wanting to neglect other valuable psalms, containing many important lessons of their own, we can nevertheless still benefit from reviewing this priceless one of David, anointed to be king, enduring many years for that privileged right. Why not both--if we continue Psalm Select, or selections from the spirit-inspired psalms, we can gain even more insight into the spirit of God, or the "goodforce" that we may receive as we love God and His word of truth, and that can stir or motivate us in the doing of God's loving will for humans. According to 1Timothy 2:3-4 that's the saving of people everywhere, as they come to an ACCURATE knowledge of the truth about God! That also thus involves the genuine peace and security God has promised and, along with prayerful pleas of the human family to God and thankful trust in Him, living in accord with His law, should be everyone's desire to be obtained. Many may not realize it, but God's word can be fulfilled in a way that allows nearly the entire human family to be preserved(!)--although many must make great strides to genuine peace. Godly instruction is thus involved. (On a sidenote, I would like to also podcast at least the Psalm 119 Reviews, or my entire work). For some, it may require more faith or thankful trust in God and His beloved word. For others, it may be that comprehending godly fear or awe, and the vital spirit of true humility--a humble respect for fellow humans and God and His decisions and will--need be recognized, replacing an arrogant sense of superiority (letting it die, as it were, lacking trust in God), acknowledging How Jehovoe is still accomplishing His will for a peace-loving world, even through the corrections of those within the United States and elsewhere, desiring the happiness of the entire human family on Earth. Let's do all we can to promote such genuine peace, remaining peace-lovers as the wisdom of God teaches us to do.

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_____(4) Psalm 119 (5Psalm 13) Commentary

PSALM 119 (5Psalm 13) COMMENTARY

INTRODUCTION

UPCOMING COMMENTARY. As mentioned previously, Psalm 119 is an acrostic, or an alphabetic song, with each succeeding 8-verse section beginning with the next letter of the Hebrew alphabet, evidently done so primarily for assistance with memorization. Evidently, the psalmist David, anointed to be king, considered the lessons of this psalm so important and helpful to all that he wanted to make it easier to remember and recall in the acrostic format. This makes 8 x 22 letters = 176 total verses. The 22 sections (of 8 verses each) can break down to 2 sets of 11, and these sets may be further grouped. This time I wish to modify the pattern from 4-4-3 to that I now believe was most intended, a 4-4-3 for the first 11-stanza half of the psalm, and a 3-5-3 for the last 11 stanzas. Beginning with the next Psalm 119 blog post I wish to offer an overview of the first 4 sections, then consider it gradually, typically a 4-verse half-section at a time, at least twice per week, and then a review summary as well.  I wish to refine or update the commentary where appropriate. We may thus consider, by commentary, 8+ individual verses, of the loving and inspired work, per week. We can then proceed with each succeeding stanza the same way, with a preview and verse-by-verse consideration, and review, continuing to complete each of the two sets of 11 sections. A broader review of each half of 11 sections is also provided. Thus 4-4-3 (11), and 3-5-3 (11) with previews and reviews, however I may place more emphasis on the 3, 4, and 5 stanza Reviews, numbered 3 per half, and save the larger reviews until the end. In this way much can be gained from this valuable psalm. 

Within it there are so many things to appreciate! God reveals through the psalmist the importance of having deep love for Him and His word, and for those who could benefit from it (hoping everyone)!

There is an intriguing connection between this 119th (5#13) psalm and Psalm 19, which also highlights various aspects of God's word such as His (1)"lawl", (2)"reminders", (3)"orders", (4)"commandments", and (5)"judgements." These five aspects are introduced in Psalm 119 in the exact same order, although with two others inserted in between them! Psalm 19 is clearly credited to David as a melody by him, which I now believe was a later work, and formed as a much shorter review of such key aspects of God's word, while Psalm 119 is now understood to have connections to his earlier time while anointed to become king.

Let's notice the reading of Psalm 19:7-14, also beautifully inspired of God.

"7 The law of Jehavoz is perfect, restoring strength. 

The reminder of Jehavoz is trustworthy, making the [naive] one wise.

8 The orders from Jehavoz are righteous, causing the heart to rejoice; 

The commandment of Jehavoz is clean, making the eyes shine[or, "enlightening the eyes", AMP].

9 The [respectful or godly fear/regarding] of Jehavoz is pure, lasting forever. 

The judgements of Jehavoz are true, altogether righteous.

10 They are more desirable than gold, Than much fine gold, 

And sweeter than honey, the honey that drips from the combs.

11 By them your servant has been warned; 

In keeping them, there is a large reward.

12 Who can discern mistakes? 

Pronounce me innocent from sins I am unaware of.

13 And hold your servant back from presumptuous acts (defying your lawl); Do not let them dominate me. 

Then I will be complete, And innocent of blatant/intentional sins.

14 May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart Be pleasing to you, O Jehavoz, my Rock and my Redeemer."

Altogether there are about 10 aspects of God's word or law highlighted in Psalm 119, with possibly two or more significant related values mentioned. The 5 aspects highlighted above appear in successive order in Psalm 119, with two others inserted among the first 7, those being God's "ways" and "regulations," or , "lawls of conduct."  "Regulations" need to be understood as the beneficial laws or instructions governing, or regulating, our conduct so as to promote respect, fairness, and peace among citizens and residents of a community, for instance. The expression "instructions" or even "lines of living" might be appropriate alternate expressions, also perhaps 'lawls and limits', 'regulane-lines', and shortened, 'regulines'. The remaining terms are God's "word," His "saying" and His "statutes." The two related values mentioned, perhaps among others, are the "respectful fear" or 'regarding' of Jehavoz and His "works." We want to come to understand each of these terms, so we can better comprehend their value in relation to God's wisdom. In the next blog post, let's have a PREVIEW of the first 4 alphabetic segments of Psalm 119, verses 1-32, beginning with a key truth, as highlighted in the first verse, that true happiness depends on walking in God's lawl, where genuine satisfaction may be found! Verse 1 reads: "Happy are those who are blameless in their way, Who walk in the lawl of Jehavoz." Is it reasonable to do so? How can we? Let's give this more attention.

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PSALM 119 COMMENTARY

PREVIEW STANZAS 1-4, verses 1-32

What stirring lessons are to be found in the 119th Psalm (5Psa.13)! Let's begin by previewing the first four stanzas. A dominant point of the first stanza is found in the first verse:

STANZA 1 THEME: HAPPINESS IS FOUND IN OBEDIENCE TO GOD.

"1 Happy are those who are blameless in their way [or, "who keep integrity"], Who walk in the law of Jehavoz." Thus we will see that happiness depends on obedience to God's law or lawl. Complete righteousness, however, is only attainable, as true Christians have come to know, through faith or deep trust in God, His word, Christ's example and the ransom provision of Christ's sacrifice allowing true forgiveness of sins, or occasional misses, but all this with the aim of love for God and neighbor, shown by genuine obedience. (1John 5:3). Abraham's faith was "counted to him as righteousness" as he loyally walked with God. (James 2:23).

STANZA 2 THEME: BY GOD'S WORD A YOUTH CAN REMAIN MORALLY CLEAN AND PURE.

What about the second stanza? Verse 9 highlights how a young man can remain spiritually clean. This is by "keeping on guard according to [God's] word." This idea of "keeping on guard" is expressed this way in another translation: by "taking heed and keeping watch [on himself] according to [God's] word [conforming his life to it]." (Psalm 119:9, AMP).

STANZA 3 THEME: FONDNESS FOR GOD'S WORD, WAYS VITAL FOR FAITHFULNESS.

The third stanza, covering verses 17-24, highlights how fondness for God's word is vital for faithfulness. Verse 18 pleads to God: "Open my eyes so that I may see clearly The wonderful things from your lawl." Christians are exhorted, at 1Peter 2:2, "2 As newborn infants, form a longing for the unadulterated (uncontaminated, unspoiled) milk of the word, so that by means of it you may grow to salvation."

STANZA 4 THEME: WE CAN REMAIN FAITHFUL UNDER TRIALSOME CIRCUMSTANCES.

The fourth stanza, verses 25-32, explains that, with God's help, we can remain faithful to God even under trialsome circumstances. Verses 25,28 say: "I lie prostrate in the dust. Preserve me alive according to your word...I have been sleepless from grief. Strengthen me according to your word." In both statements the psalmist relies upon the word of God, including His promise of support. 1Corinthians 10:13 explains: "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." Still, accordingly a trial 'uncommon to men' in God's view we shouldn't be faced with--as we seek to remain faithful, the truth of our sincerity and loyalty to God and others should eventually become clear, with wishes that wrongdoers might turn around, abandoning wrong conduct, preferring God's kindness, as explained in Psalm 103. Such matters as these, as God's word addresses, will be considered more thoroughly.

Thus we have much to look forward to as we examine these and other vital points of faith. May we appreciate the lessons God offers in this psalm for our spiritual welfare and that of others, as we gain understanding and insight into such matters!

Godz lawl, Exodus 22

Being Responsible for Another's Possession Temporarily, Respect for Them, for What Is Theirs

Exodus 22:10-13:

CHRISTIAN STANDARD: RESPECTING ANOTHER'S POSSESSIONS, LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.

Let’s now consider Exodus 22:10-13: “10 “If a man gives his fellow man a donkey or a bull or a sheep or any domestic animal to keep and it dies or gets maimed or gets led away while nobody is looking, 11 there should be an oath made between them before Jehovah, that he did not lay his hand on the goods of his fellow man; and the owner must accept it. The other man is not to make compensation. 12 But if the animal has been stolen from him, he is to make compensation to its owner. 13 If it was torn by a wild animal, he is to bring it as evidence. He is not to make compensation for something torn by a wild animal.”

Verse 10,11 Here we have an instance where a possession of one person enters into the care of another. This law involves just animals, which of course, as opposed to money or some material object, can be more subject to outside influences, such as other animals while grazing, etc. If something should happen to the animal outside of the control of the keeper of it, then an oath was to be made between the two neighbors, that the man did nothing to harm or take his fellow man’s property, and no compensation for the animal was necessary in this instance.

Verse 12,13 Here we find what God’s view is if an animal is stolen while there is no evidence to enable the thief to be found, to require compensation from him/her. Evidently, in this instance, the keeper of the animal was to make compensation, likely from one of his own animals. Thus, responsibility for holding something of a person temporarily was to be taken seriously, with a willingness to compensate for it if it is stolen and the thief is not found. However, God’s law was reasonable, so that other things that may happen to it outside of the person’s control, usually required no compensation—only the person’s oath before God that they sought no harm to the animal. Such was the case when the creature was torn by a wild animal and killed. The evidence of this still needed to be presented. Of course, God would hold a person accountable for a false oath, as He hates a “lying tongue” (Prove 6:16,17).

Thus we have some insight into this matter of showing genuine or Christian love for another in being willing to meet his need or request to care for some belonging(s) temporarily. The requiring of oaths that nothing underhanded took place in some circumstances reminds us of the unselfish interest in one another that is expected regarding such an agreement. A consideration perhaps for one asking another for such a favor is whether or not the person could cover the cost for the item(s) in the rare occurrence that it gets stolen and the thief cannot be found or determined in order to possibly return it and make compensation himself. Love, of course, including a sense of responsibility toward the person is what would normally move him to want to somehow provide for/replace the item for the owner, with empathy in his having expected the item to be returned in good faith. Certainly in most instances, the person caring for it will take reasonable precautions to avoid mishaps, so that he can indeed prove having been worthy of the owner's faith.

Clearly, the Lawl of God promotes fairness and reasonableness, taking various circumstances under consideration in the judgement to be rendered. Likewise, Philippians 4:5 says “5 Let your reasonableness become known to all men...” Yes, while Christ said he did not come to destroy God’s lawl, but rather to perfect it, and we do have laws to respect and keep (even) as true Christians, primarily Christianity involves, within the framework of that lawl, acknowledging principles of truth in the fear of God, learning to hate what he hates, and loving what is good. For instance, loving God then others as oneself, while a command, helps us do the right thing for others without requiring a lengthy list of do’s and dont’s. May we continue to practice the lawl of love in our dealings with God and others, seeking their eternal welfare and happiness in harmony with God’s delightful will!

PSALM 119 PREVIEW STANZAS 12-14

* Indicates Review Text, ** Indicates Also Final Review Text

STANZA 12 Theme: GOD’S WORD AND LAW PRESERVE SPIRITUAL AND ETERNAL LIFE.

These verses emphasize God’s faithfulness as well as fondness for God’s law(l) and it’s preservation value. What can help us not to forget God’s orders, as the psalmist mentioned was his determination?

*89 Forever, O Jehovahz, Your word will remain in the heavens.

90 Your faithfulness is through all generations. You have firmly established the earth, so that it continues to stand.

91 By your judgements they remain until today, For they are all your servants.

*92 If I had not been fond of your law(l), I would have perished in my tribulation.

*93 I will never forget your orders, Because by them you have preserved me alive.

**94 I belong to you; save me, Because I have searched for your orders.

95 The devious wait to kill me, But I give close attention to your reminders.

96 I have seen a limit to all perfection, But your commandment has no limit.

STANZA 13 Theme: KEEP GOD'S WORD.

What are three aspects of divine wisdom, and how are they beneficial? Why was the psalmist motivated to avoid wrongdoing, and how does obeying God deepen our wisdom?

**97 How I do love your lawl! I ponder over it all day long.

98 Your commandment makes me wiser than my enemies, Because it is with me forever.

**99 I have more insight than all my teachers, Because I ponder over your reminders.

*100 I act with more understanding than older men, Because I observe your orders.

*101 I refuse to walk on any wrong path, So that I may keep your word.

102 I do not turn aside from your judgements, For you have instructed me.

103 How sweet your sayings are to my palate, More so than honey to my mouth!

104 By your orders I act with understanding. That is why I hate every false path.

STANZA 14 Theme: GOD CAN PRESERVE US THROUGH TIMES OF PERIL, WHILE HIS REMINDERS BRING JOY.

Like the psalmist, we may come to view God’s reminders with great joy. How does God’s word serve as a lamp and a light, how has God proven to be a Savior?

*105 Your word is a lamp to my foot, And a light for my path.

106 I have sworn an oath, and I will carry it out, To observe your righteous judgements.

107 I have been greatly troubled. O Jehovahz, preserve me alive according to your word.

108 Please take pleasure in my voluntary offerings of praise, O Jehovahz, And teach me your judgements.

**109 My life is in constant danger, But I have not forgotten your lawl.

110 The devious have set a trap for me, But I have not strayed from your orders.

**111 I take your reminders as my permanent possession, For they are the joy of my heart.

112 I have resolved to obey your instructions At all times, down to the last.

PSALM 119 STANZA 14A

STANZA 14 Theme: GOD CAN PRESERVE US THROUGH TIMES OF PERIL, WHILE HIS REMINDERS BRING JOY.

The 8 verses of stanza 14 include thoughts such as these: Like the psalmist, we may come to view God’s reminders with great joy. How does God’s word serve as a lamp and a light, how has God proven to be a Savior?

105 Your word is a lamp to my foot, And a light for my path.

106 I have sworn an oath, and I will carry it out, To observe your righteous judgements.

107 I have been greatly troubled. O Jehovahz, preserve me alive according to your word.

108 Please take pleasure in my voluntary offerings of praise, O Jehovahz, And teach me your judgements.

105 Your word is a lamp to my foot, And a light for my path.

BE GUIDED BY GOD'S WORD. It was the prophet Jeremiah who was inspired by God to pen the words of Jeremiah 10:23, saying: “23 I well know, O Jehovahz, that man’s way does not belong to him. It does not belong to man who is walking even to direct his step.” We want to rely on Jehovahz as we “walk with God,” willing to let Him guide our steps. Of course we have free will, and can choose our course in life, for Jehovahz is a God of freedom! But man was not designed to decide for himself what is good and what is bad, what is right and what is wrong. This belongs to Jehovahz God. Thus, Proverbs 16:9 says: “ 9 A man may plot out his course in his heart, But it is Jehovahz who directs his steps.” God’s word is therefore a “lamp” to our foot, to allow us to see the next step we should take. And more than that, it can light our path ahead, helping us see down the road, alerting us to what may be coming in the distance. God’s prophetic word does give warning, often with history written in advance! May we look to God and His word for guidance in life, leading humanity to the success of God’s loving will and good purpose!

106 I have sworn an oath, and I will carry it out, To observe your righteous judgements.

LEARN FROM AND KEEP GOD'S JUDGEMENTS. Genuine decisions from God should be appreciated as made in harmony with His law and will, and in line with truth. And God is humble to correct any view if not correct. The psalmist had such confidence in His judgements that he made a solemn vow to recognize and support them. Really, we stand in awe of God’s power and righteous decisions manifest throughout man’s history. The judgements God made in times past are written in God’s word for mankind to learn from, so as not to repeat history. Even some of the wrong desires manifest by Israel were recorded as a warning, as expressed in 1Corinthians 10:6-11. Verses 6,11 say: “6 Now these things became examples for us, in order for us not to desire injurious things, as they desired them...11 Now these things happened to them as examples, and they were written for a warning to us upon whom the ends of the systems of things have come.” They were not to worship idols, desire pleasure above God, or murmur against His exercise of authority, for instance. We, too, should appreciate that God, and no human, is the giver of “every good gift and every perfect present.” Should we not love the Creator even more than what He has created? We can love both, but certainly Jehovahz, as the God of love, deserves the first place in our heart! May we be determined to keep God first, and greatly respect His righteous judgements!

107 I have been greatly troubled. O Jehovahz, preserve me alive according to your word.

ACCEPT COUNSEL OF GOD'S WORD. Another translation says “I have suffered much...” Have you been through difficult trials like the psalmist? If we rely upon God, He can carry us through. What benefit would there be to ignoring God and striking out on our own, as if we can get through without His help? He wants to help us, and how we need His guidance! His word really can help us know how to handle various situations that may arise in our life, to make good, healthy decisions leading to success. We need to study carefully the teachings of Joshalz, such as the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5-7, and the wisdom of God found throughout His word, in the law given through Moses, and especially in the Christian writings as well as books such as Proverbs and Psalms. As we grow in wisdom, which we can ask God for, we will often know the right decision to make, also as we receive God’s help in prayer.

108 Please take pleasure in my voluntary offerings of praise, O Jehovahz, And teach me your judgements.

EXPRESS ADMIRATION OF GOD AND HIS WAYS. For all the benefits God brings to us, in His goodness, we can offer to Him our whole-hearted devotion and praise. Jehovahz takes pleasure in such, as we express appreciation for Him with thanksgiving for His good gifts and love exercised toward us. Pleading that God find pleasure in such expressions, the psalmist also requests to be taught God’s judgements, or judicial decisions. As highlighted in an earlier verse, God’s judgements enable all to learn of God’s right ways and standards—what’s required by Him. Thus, God’s beneficial ways and standards can themselves be objects of our praise and admiration, by which God enables mankind to live happily and peaceably into eternity! May we ever appreciate God’s loving intervention in mankind’s activities, to assist us in accord with His good will and purpose, trusting His righteous judgements!

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PSALM 119 STANZA 14B

STANZA 14 Theme: GOD CAN PRESERVE US THROUGH TIMES OF PERIL, WHILE HIS REMINDERS BRING JOY.

Stanza 14B reads like this:

109 My life is in constant danger, But I have not forgotten your law.

110 The sinful have set a trap for me, But I have not strayed from your orders.

111 I take your reminders as my permanent possession, For they are the joy of my heart.

112 I have resolved to obey your instructions At all times, down to the last.

109 My life is in constant danger, But I have not forgotten your law.

JEHOVAHZ KNOWS HOW. Jehovahz, the Creator of mankind and this entire universe, certainly has tremendous power—has He used it to save His servants out of peril? Look at examples from history—such as God’s display of loyalty and power at the Red Sea, parting the waters for His people to escape! God lovingly ensured the safety of faithful ones that He brought out of Egyptian bondage, as they journeyed over the seabed while Egypt’s army unwisely went in pursuit, God fighting against them, for example by removing wheels from their chariots. God’s people all safely reached the other side, before He released the waters to have them destroy the warriors who had witnessed His great power in Egypt. (Exodus 14). Do you see in the account any weaker ones who got left behind, who didn’t make it? Still, they needed to follow God’s instructions, as the psalmist did not forget God’s law. 2Peter 2 says: “9 So, then, Jehovahz knows how to rescue people of godly devotion out of trial, but to reserve unrighteous people to be destroyed on the day of judgement.” May all work on cultivating a close relationship with God, as “9 Jehovahz is not slow concerning his promise, as some people consider slowness, but he is patient with you because he does not desire anyone to perish but desires all to attain to repentance.“

110 The sinful have set a trap for me, But I have not strayed from your orders.

OBEDIENCE TO GOD VITAL. The psalmist expresses the role of God’s orders in saving him from traps of evil ones. May we be ever determined to abide by Jehovahz’s most serious and urgent commands, especially as revealed through Christ. The disciples of Joshalz set an example in this, in the first century C.E. He had commissioned them to share with others the divine knowledge about Christ and God’s Kingdom, as at Matthew 28:18-20. They were persecuted for doing so, being told not to speak about Joshalz, after his impalement (and resurrection.) Acts 5:27-29 reports: “27 So they brought them and stood them before the Sanʹhe·drin. Then the high priest questioned them 28 and said: “We strictly ordered you not to keep teaching on the basis of this name, and yet look! you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching, and you are determined to bring the blood of this man upon us.” 29 In answer Peter and the other apostles said: “We must obey God as ruler rather than men.” After debate, the account continues: “40 At this they took his advice, and they summoned the apostles, flogged them, and ordered them to stop speaking on the basis of Joshalz’s name, and let them go. 41 So they went out from before the Sanʹhe·drin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy to be dishonored in behalf of his name. 42 And every day in the temple and from house to house they continued without letup teaching and declaring the good news about the Christ, Joshalz.” May we trust God’s saving power, especially for our eternal life, as we obey God’s orders for true Christians.

111 I take your reminders as my permanent possession, For they are the joy of my heart.

APPRECIATE THEM DEEPLY. How we rejoice when we’ve recently been reminded of something that proved helpful to us in an important decision or situation we’ve faced! It is deeply satisfying to know what to do to please Jehovahz as we face decisions each day. Growing in godly wisdom helps us to know and not fret over such decisions, and life becomes more and more delightful, handling things successfully. Paying attention to reminders from God, which may come by reading His word personally, attending meetings where God’s word is read or discussed, or by association with those of genuine faith, can help us maintain a healthy routine in life, seeking first both God’s kingdom and His righteousness, or integrity to Him. (Matth 6:33). As the psalmist, may we come to delight in God’s reminders, seeking to understand them more fully rather than viewing them as mundane. Let them come to be “the joy of [our] heart!”

112 I have resolved to obey your instructions (or glanelines) At all times, down to the last.

DOWN TO THE LAST. The detailed guidance God provides in His instructions or “regulations” (guidelines that regulate our activities) the psalmist was determined to keep “at all times.” He was not about to violate God’s law in any way. Then he adds, “down to the last.” Another translation reads “to the very end.” The psalmist may be using this expression with a dual meaning. As he recently stated that his life was in constant danger, he may have considered that keeping God’s law and instructions can prove to have His blessing. Of course, God preserved the psalmist alive, and wants us to faithfully live into His righteous new world of peace and happiness. Also, as they involved details of procedure, he was willing to follow God’s instructions carefully, even to the last detail. May we not confuse God’s instructions or "regulations" with laws made without God’s assistance or guidance, that are out of harmony with God’s word or will. Should we really follow detailed instructions that cause us to disobey God’s clear law and orders? Jesus stated a principle, at Matthew 22: “21...“Pay back, therefore, Caesar’s things to Caesar, but God’s things to God.” Specifically, the paying of taxes to Caesar was being discussed, which Joshalz showed was right to those duly authorized. It is to the true God, Jehovahz, that we owe our life, and therefore our devotion. But He has placed rulers with authority in their “relative positions,” beneath Him. (Romans 13:1-4). People are instructed by God to follow their law, as long as it does not violate God’s law, as we appreciate God’s Kingdom rulership through Christ above, helping to correct any wrong.

PSALM 119 REVIEW STANZAS 12-14

STANZA 12 Theme: GOD'S WORD AND LAWL PRESERVE SPIRITUAL AND ETERNAL LIFE.

These verses emphasize God’s faithfulness as well as fondness for God’s lawl and it’s preservation value. What can help us not to forget God’s orders, as the psalmist mentioned was his determination?

89 Forever, O Jehovahz, Your word will remain in the heavens.

GOD’S LASTING WORD. (:89) Isaiah 40:8 says "The green grass dries up,The blossom withers, But the word of our God endures forever.” God's word supplies us the universal standards by which all should be governed throughout eternity--the way of genuine peace, happiness, and unity. The Bible has been compared to a loving letter from a Father to His children. It is ever the "elusive" instruction manual for humanity, and all those with ruling authority among mankind do well to consider it's wisdom in their governance.

92 If I had not been fond of your lawl, I would have perished in my tribulation.

93 I will never forget your orders, Because by them you have preserved me alive.

GOD'S LOVING LAWL & ORDERS. (92-93) Once again, the psalmist reminds us of the importance of loving God's lawl, appreciating it's value in our everyday life. He is convinced that, without it, he would not have made it through times of difficulty. Likewise today, many dangers exist in the world, both physically and spiritually. It is "spiritual death" that could cause one to lose out on eternal life. How we need God's loving lawl to help guide our steps safely through this world, into the "real life." (1TImo 6:19). Especially was the psalmist concerned with God's "orders." Clearly, for the psalmist not to forget God’s orders, he had to be familiar with them. According to the next verse, he had “searched for [God’s] orders,” and no doubt discovered them. As obeying them saved his life, likely multiple times, his appreciation for them must have deepened. Even if our life is not physically threatened as much as the psalmist, spiritual hazards abound. By heeding divine orders to guard against bad associations and to hate what is bad, for instance, we may allow God to guard our spiritual lives and eternal life prospects. (1COri 15:33; PROve 13:20; PSalm 97:10). Like the psalmist, search for God’s orders in His word, especially those from Christ, review them often, and carefully keep them! (PSalm 119:4).

94 I belong to you; save me, Because I have searched for your orders.

ENDURANCE NOT SIMPLY SURVIVING. (94) The psalmist was born into a nation dedicated to God. Still, according to the psalmist, searching for God’s orders in order to keep or obey them provided a basis for salvation by Him. Joshalz spoke in a similar way. After discussing many of the hardships that may be encountered by his disciples during the “last days ” of a system, he said at Matthew 24:13 “But the one who has endured to the end will be saved.” Such endurance is not simply “surviving,” but rather enduring trials faithfully to God, with integrity to Him, in harmony with His lawl. Just as receiving a license to drive a vehicle does not give us the right to drive any unsafe way we wish on the street, so having the ransom of Christ does not give us the right to violate God’s lawls haphazardly. We should especially strive to carefully keep God’s orders, and appreciate His reminders in other areas of life, then the ransom sacrifice can cover our occasional misses, usually for more minor mistakes. As we do so, we “draw close to God,” and we may especially ‘belong to Him,’ as we prove to be loyal.

STANZA 13 Theme: KEEP GOD'S WORD.

The 8 verses of this stanza address questions such as these: What are three aspects of divine wisdom, and how are they beneficial? Why was the psalmist motivated to avoid evil, and how does obeying God deepen our wisdom?

97 How I do love your lawl! I ponder over it all day long.

IN PRACTICALLY EVERY SITUATION. (97) The psalmist is clearly motivated to obey God, wanting to please Him by living in accord with His law. Jehovahz’s law clearly reflects His own values and standards—loving and keeping it therefore helps us draw close to Him. But how can the psalmist have the time to “ponder over it all day long?” What does he mean by this? Rather than engaging in constant study or prayer, he realizes that God’s word gives us advice or principles to apply in practically every situation we face or meet in life. Thus, “all day long” as we seek God's view and way in every situation, God’s lawl can guide and help us, so that we may more and more handle situations in a successful way that is pleasing to God and all involved. Proverbs 3:5-6 puts it this way: “5 Trust in Jehovahz with all your heart, And do not rely on your own understanding ("Never rely on what you think you know.", GNT). 6 Please Him in all your ways, And he will make your paths straight.” Thus, look for God’s view, or way, in every situation you face, remaining humble before Him and others.

99 I have more insight than all my teachers, Because I ponder over your reminders.

ALWAYS GOOD REASON. (99) One aspect of divine wisdom is “insight.” This is empathy at work, to comprehend a given situation. Proverbs 19:11 says this: “11 The insight of a man certainly slows down his anger, And it is beauty on his part to overlook an offense.” Such applied empathy enables us to grasp why someone perhaps offended us the way they did, slowing down any anger that we might have begun to experience. The psalmist has developed such keen insight by pondering over God’s “reminders.” When we’re reminded about some order or command from God, are we in the habit of “pondering” the reasons for it, in harmony with God’s love for humanity? Does not Jehovahz always have good reason for His laws in keeping with what is true, right, just, and fair for all? (PROve 21:3; PSalm 98:9). May we develop such a habit to ask Why? God instructs us as He does, confident in His overriding love for us in all His good guidance. (1JOhn 4:8).

100 I act with more understanding than older men, Because I observe your orders.

DIFFTELL GOD'S ORDERS FOR GREATER WISDOM. Two more aspects of divine wisdom are "discernment" and “understanding.” These are vital to fully grasp God’s lawl and apply it in all aspects of life. This is a key text, as it shows a way to grow in understanding is by searching for, and following God’s orders, or most serious and urgent commands. This requires discernment, or “difftell”, to see differences between things, such as right and wrong, true and false, and serious commands from lesser ones. This helps motivate any understanding in the right way, to apply it successfully with love. Understanding involves grasping God’s will or purpose, the heart or inner person, and applying God’s word to one’s entire life. This is important when it comes to comprehending God’s lawl in a matter. Recently we considered as an example the understanding needed to safely operate a motor vehicle. Several laws and principles can and should be understood and kept to make the necessary decisions to drive well. The process of learning to drive properly thus aids development of understanding. Love of God and neighbor should be primary motivations in doing so, to do so safely. Learning to observe God’s orders enabled the psalmist to act with great understanding. May all give attention especially to God’s commands through Christ, discerning the difference between the most serious of commands, and those of lesser importance. We should keep them all, but seek awareness of the most serious and urgent ones, such as the Ten Commandments that God spoke from Heaven and that He “wrote” or inscribed on stone tablets. This will help us be much wiser in making good decisions each day.

STANZA 14 Theme: GOD CAN PRESERVE US THROUGH TIMES OF PERIL, WHILE HIS REMINDERS BRING JOY.

The 8 verses of stanza 14 include thoughts such as these: Like the psalmist, we may come to view God’s reminders with great joy. How does God’s word serve as a lamp and a light, how has God proven to be a Savior?

101 I refuse to walk on any wrong path, So that I may keep your word.

REALLY PLEASING GOD. Recall the psalmist said in verse 97 that he loved God’s law, loving obedience to Him. He had acquired the discernment to see the difference between right and wrong, good and bad, true and false, and so on. Largely by God’s word he came to recognize a wrong path, or at least knew when a path was out of harmony with God’s will, refusing to walk on it. Notice he was not enticed to disobey or hurt Jehovahz in any way—wanting only to keep God’s word. He also expresses this later when he readily tells sinful men to stay away from him that he may observe the commandments of his God (v.115). May we come to feel as the psalmist about pleasing our loving God, Jehovahz!

105 Your word is a lamp to my foot, And a light for my path.

BE GUIDED BY GOD'S WORD. (105) It was the prophet Jeremiah who was inspired by God to pen the words of Jeremiah 10:23, saying: “23 I well know, O Jehovahz, that man’s way does not belong to him. It does not belong to man who is walking even to direct his step.” We want to rely on Jehovahz as we “walk with God,” willing to let Him guide our steps. Of course we have free will, and can choose our course in life, for Jehovahz is a God of freedom! But man was not designed to decide for himself what is good and what is bad, what is right and what is wrong. This belongs to Jehovahz God. Thus, Proverbs 16:9 says: “ 9 A man may plot out his course in his heart, But it is Jehovahz who directs his steps.” God’s word is therefore a “lamp” to our foot, to allow us to see the next step we should take. And more than that, it can light our path, helping us see down the road, alerting us to what may be coming in the distance. God’s prophetic word does give warning, often with history written in advance! May we look to God and His word for guidance in life, leading humanity to the success of God’s loving will and good purpose!

109 My life is in constant danger, But I have not forgotten your law.

JEHOVAHZ KNOWS HOW. Jehovahz, the Creator of mankind and this entire universe, certainly has tremendous power—has He used it to save His servants out of peril? Look at examples from history—such as God’s display of loyalty and power at the Red Sea, parting the waters for His people to escape! God lovingly ensured the safety of faithful ones that He brought out of Egyptian bondage, as they journeyed over the seabed while Egypt’s army unwisely went in pursuit, God fighting against them, for example by removing wheels from their chariots. God’s people all safely reached the other side, before He released the waters to have them destroy the warriors who had witnessed His great power in Egypt. (Exodus 14). Do you see in the account any weaker ones who got left behind, who didn’t make it? Still, they needed to follow God’s instructions, as the psalmist did not forget God’s law. 2Peter 2 says: “9 So, then, Jehovahz knows how to rescue people of godly devotion out of trial, but to reserve unrighteous people to be destroyed on the day of judgement.” May all work on cultivating a close relationship with God, as “9 Jehovahz is not slow concerning his promise, as some people consider slowness, but he is patient with you because he does not desire anyone to perish but desires all to attain to repentance.“

111 I take your reminders as my permanent possession, For they are the joy of my heart.

APPRECIATE THEM DEEPLY. (111) How we rejoice when we’ve recently been reminded of something that proved helpful to us in an important decision or situation we’ve faced! It is deeply satisfying to know what to do to please Jehovahz as we face decisions each day. Growing in godly wisdom helps us to know and not fret over such decisions, and life becomes more and more delightful, handling things successfully. Paying attention to reminders from God, which may come by reading His word personally, attending meetings where God’s word is read or discussed, or by association with those of genuine faith, can help us maintain a healthy routine in life, seeking first both God’s kingdom and His righteousness, or integrity to Him. (MATth 6:33). As the psalmist, may we come to delight in God’s reminders, seeking to understand them more fully rather than viewing them as mundane or inconsequential. Let them come to be “the joy of [our] heart!”

PSALM 119 STANZA 15A&B

STANZA 15 Theme: REMAIN ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF GOD'S JUDGEMENTS.

The 8 verses of stanza 15 express thoughts such as these: What determination by the psalmist to lovingly obey God! How can we avoid half-heartedness, and how does a proper motive aid us to keep God’s lawl?

Stanza 15A is this:

113 I love less the halfhearted ones, But I love exceedingly your lawl.

114 You are my shelter and my shield, For your word is my hope.

115 Stay away from me, you men of badness, So that I may observe the commandments of my God.

116 Support me as you promised, So that I may keep living; Do not let my hope turn into disappointment.

113 I love less the halfhearted ones, But I love exceedingly your lawl.

AIM TO LOVE THE GIVER MUCH MORE THAN HIS GIFTS. The Hebrew expression often translated “hate” can also mean to “love less." Still, the psalmist seems to be contrasting his feelings for half-hearted ones with those for God’s lawl. Evidence abounds of God’s tremendous love for us as humans—how could we give our greatest love, the first place in our hearts, to anyone else? Half-hearted ones are having interference or are not yet aware of how much we need God in our lives--guidance we need and love bringing great joy! They may yet be going through the motions of serving God, but their hearts are really elsewhere. They need to ponder the gifts from God we each receive daily, including every breath, and worship (or ‘bow to’) the Giver, rather than thinking that any gift somehow deserves a higher place than the One making it, or making it possible for us to use or enjoy it. The psalmist recognized God’s lawl as one of His greatest gifts, and expressed his appreciation for it, desiring to express his love for God by keeping His lawl. As 1John 5:3 says, “3 For this is what the love of God means, that we observe his commandments; and yet his commandments are not burdensome.” God's instructions, when kept as He intended, are ultimately refreshing to us, and not too heavy a load to bear. While we seek to encourage half-hearted ones to love God more fully, finding greater joy, we need to guard our closest associations, longing to maintain God’s favor first, along with those properly fearing God and keeping His commandments, which makes possible genuine peace, love, and truly an eventual end to hateful strife. (1COri 15:33; PROve 13:20; PSAlm 37:11).

114 You are my shelter and my shield, For your word is my hope.

DEEP TRUST AND HOPE IN GOD'S WORD. Jehovahz’s word promises at least spiritual protection for His genuine servants, along with the gift of eternal life and happiness. We need to seek the honor of God’s name, representing Him well, seeking fully to live in harmony with His word. Of course, the ransom provision of Christ, with faith, provides a way for forgiveness despite occasional missteps, but we need to be aiming for the right target. Spiritual traps and dangers have abounded in this world, but God can support us, our spiritual well-being, and our relationships with Him and, at least eventually, with other God-fearing ones. Some may be protected physically, especially as God’s kingdom increases, as Jesus/Joshalz said to Martha, at John 11: “26 and everyone who is living and exercises faith in me will never die at all. Do you believe this?” Thus, faith, or thankful trust in God and His firstborn Son, are vital for our spiritual and eternal lives. God certainly can be a shelter and a shield in a world with fewer and fewer hardships, as we maintain our hope in God’s word, like the psalmist.

115 Stay away from me, you men of badness, So that I may observe the commandments of my God.

THROUGH THE GATES OF GOD'S KINGDOM. What determination to love God! God said, in the first recorded prophecy in His word to mankind, that He would put enmity, or strife, between the offspring of His Seed, and that of the serpent, or Satan. (GENes 3:15). Here we have seen men of badness trying to interfere with the psalmist’s strong desire to remain loyal to God by keeping all of His commandments. May we be wary of tricks by wrongdoers, who do not yet appreciate God or His love as we all should. Yes, Jesus/Joshalz came into the world “to save sinners,” but such ones need to show genuine sorrow over their sins, and turn around from a wrong course, realizing it’s painful consequences, to become obedient from the heart to God’s ways, having been permitted entry through the gate of God’s Kingdom. If there is some way to correct a past mistake, or "set things straight," this may also be necessary. Rather than stumbling others away from serving God, we need to help and support others to obey God and His Son. (MATth 25:31-46). Perhaps, then, in God’s compassion and mercy, with the ransom provision, such lives may be spared, many ‘coming alive’ in a spiritual or figurative sense.

116 Support me as you promised, So that I may keep living; Do not let my hope turn into disappointment.

HOPE OF LIFE A GREAT COMFORT. Evidently, God had promised this future king that He would be supported to fulfill His role, despite hardships experienced. What confidence this inspired in the psalmist! He held fast to this hope, as he endured difficulty after difficulty. He looked to God for support, as he sought to keep God’s lawl completely. Our hope of eternal life likewise can be a source of great comfort to us through difficulties or hardships. Psalm 34:19 says “19 Many are the hardships of the upright one, But Jehovahz rescues him from them all.” As we learn to keep integrity to God, our hope becomes ever brighter, and more complete. Still, eternal life is a gift from God that no one earns. (ROMans 6:23). But genuine faith, or thankful trust, in God and the ransom of Christ makes possible true righteousness, learning to please God in practically all situations, keeping integrity to Him. We can pray for God’s wisdom to see things properly and make better decisions. May we continue to always aim for the target of obedience, thus handling situations in the best way, letting the ransom cover our occasional unintended misses. We can thus find joy as we reflect on God’s commands, with confident hope in God’s loving gift of eternal life and happiness!

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PSALM 119 STANZA 15B

STANZA 15 Theme: REMAIN ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF GOD'S JUDGEMENTS.

The 8 verses of stanza 15 express thoughts such as these: What determination by the psalmist to lovingly obey God! How can we avoid half-heartedness, and how does a proper motive aid us to keep God’s lawl?

Stanza 15B reads like this:

117 Support me that I may be saved; Then I will always concentrate on your instructions.

118 You reject all those who stray from your instructions, For they are false and deceitful.

119 You discard all the crooked of the earth as if they were unworthy dross. That is why I love your reminders.

120 The dread of you makes my body tremble; I am in fear of your judgements.

117 Support me that I may be saved; Then I will always concentrate on your instructions.

FINDING JOY IN GOD'S INSPIRED WORD. God's word teaches all to have a healthy view of life, viewing life as sacred. As the psalmist earlier revealed, his life was “in constant danger.” He pleads now for God’s support that he “may be saved.” While the psalmist David has not forgotten God’s lawl, he is not able to give it the attention he would like, as a future king. Proverbs 16:10 says, for instance: “10 Inspired decision should be on the lips of a king; He must never betray justice.” Thus he expresses his desire to concentrate on the instructive guidance God has given in the Lawl, so as to follow it carefully, to be able to execute it properly, and to ensure others understand it accurately so as to keep it as well. While still finding joy in God’s reminders, how he hopes in becoming free of constant enemy opposition, as God may have promised him, so as to focus even more on God’s inspired word, and blessings from Him! His words, however, also offer hope to wrongdoers who need or will appreciate God’s mercy and Christ’s ransom, being moved by such to aim to trust and obey them! ( v.111,116).

118 You reject all those who stray from your instructions, For they are false and deceitful.

PROVEN DIVINELY INSPIRED. Recall that “God is love,” and He is the “God of truth.” (1John 4:8; Psalm 31:5). Therefore, when He sees a need to give us specific instructions, are these not to help us live happily and peaceably in harmony with His good will and purpose? God-fearing ones love and appreciate such thoughtful guidance from our Creator! His instruction is far superior to that of those mistakenly believing that there is no God, although many may have now repented of such a course. To honest and right-hearted ones, having a proper motive, God’s word or instruction gives evidence of it’s divine inspiration, moving them to keep His lawl. Those straying from such guidance, therefore, are “false and deceitful.” They promote their own ideas above God’s, deceiving others in seeking their own glory. May we not be so deceived, but appreciate God’s superior wisdom and give Him the glory He so deserves!

119 You discard all the crooked of the earth as if they were unworthy dross. That is why I love your reminders.

HELP TO MAKE GOOD DECISIONS. Regarding Jehovahz, Isaiah reports: “14 With whom did He consult to gain understanding, Or who teaches Him in the path of justice, Or teaches Him knowledge, Or shows Him the way of true understanding? 15 Look! The nations are like a drop from a bucket, And as the film of dust on the scales they are regarded. Look! He lifts up the islands like fine dust.” (Isaiah 40:14-15). Thus while appealing to them to turn from their badness, Jehovahz can in time discard those unrepentant, if any, who are refusing to listen, and determined to stray, who are misleading others away from God and true happiness. God’s reminders, on the other hand, assist all to follow the way of truth, love, and peace, the path of righteousness, or rightdoing. At Isaiah 48:18, God appeals: “18 If only you would pay attention to my commandments! Then your peace would become just like a river And your righteousness like the waves of the sea.” Such ones would know the right way to go, would increasingly make the right decisions, consistently, to promote true happiness, peace, and godly success. With proper motive, may sincere lovers of God and truth ever appreciate His reminders as helping us “pay attention” to the vital commands contributing to eternal peace and happiness!

120 The dread of you makes my body tremble; I am in fear of your judgements.

HIGHLY REGARD GOD'S JUDGEMENTS. While the genuine fear of God is wholesome, healthful, and not morbid, it involves a high regard for Him and His power, viewing Him as Hoss, helping us remain humble before Him. (Psalm 147:11). Isaiah 40:26 says: “26 “Lift up your eyes to heaven and see. Who has created these things? It is the One who brings out their army by number; He calls them all by name.” While motivated by appreciation for His love and greatness, the thought of seriously violating Him in some way should make one tremble. We should highly regard His judgements, refusing to disregard or go against Him or them. May we be moved to learn of God’s judgements—the decisions He’s made in the past that we likely have benefitted from, and those He purposes to make in the future, in the outworking of His good and loving will, so that we may know how to please Him, and remain for life everlasting!

PSALM 119 STANZA 16

Stanza 16 Theme: PROVE A LOYAL SERVANT OF GOD, BY PRACTICING WHAT IS JUST AND RIGHT.

All 8 of these verses show God looks after the welfare of His loyal servants, who practice what is just and right. How might understanding help us to know God’s reminders, and why should we highly value God’s commandments?

Stanza 16A:

121 I have done what is just and right. Do not abandon me to my oppressors!

122 Guarantee the welfare of your servant; May the presumptuous not oppress me.

123 My eyes have grown weary waiting for your salvation And for your righteous promise.

124 Show your loyal love to your servant, And teach me your regulations (regulines).

121 I have done what is just and right. Do not abandon me to my oppressors!

STRIVE FOR BLAMELESS INTEGRITY. (:121) The psalmist here pleads for God’s protection on the basis of his adherence to the path of righteousness. Some would imagine that the ransom sacrifice of Christ somehow means we no longer have to practice what is right—What a mistake! Recall Jesus said, early in his Sermon on the Mount, “17 “Do not think I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I came, not to destroy, but to fulfill (actually, perfect, or make complete). 18 Truly I say to you that sooner would heaven and earth pass away than for one smallest letter or one stroke of a letter to pass away from the Law until all things take place. 19 Whoever, therefore, breaks one of these least commandments and teaches others to do so will be called least in relation to the Kingdom of the heavens. But whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in relation to the Kingdom of the heavens. 20 For I say to you that if your righteousness (or, 'integrity') does not surpass that of the scribes and the Pharisees, you will by no means enter into the Kingdom of the heavens.” The ransom is primarily to cover our unintentional, occasional misses as we strive for the target of righteousness, or blameless integrity to God. (ROMans 3:31; 6:15-17). With full faith in Christ, striving to carefully follow this example of righteousness and keep Christ's commands, persons may likewise appeal to God if being oppressed, as the psalmist requests in these two verses. Christ’s coming to complete the Law also has application in the U.S. Constitution’s bettering of the Articles of Confederation, which can also be applied in a better way with Christian insight and principles, such as in persons experiencing an excommunication rather than literal death that can be reversed by a waking up, with real growth becoming spiritually alive.

122 Guarantee the welfare of your servant; May the presumptuous [defying your law] not oppress me.

FAITHFUL ENDURANCE, HOLDING FIRMLY. (:122) Going further, the psalmist wants his welfare guaranteed. While God has not promised that we won’t be harmed in some way in the present world, He can look after our welfare, our long-term welfare spiritually and otherwise—our well-being, and long-term relationships with God and God-fearing ones. The psalmist has been oppressed by presumptuous ones (defying God's law), at one point having been “greatly troubled” (v.107). He stated: “92 If I had not been fond of your lawl, I would have perished in my troubles.” Yet he had things to learn. He said: “71 It is good that I have been troubled, So that I may learn your regulations/regulines.” And he said: “67 Before I was troubled, I used to go astray, But now I keep your saying.” Perhaps now that he is more familiar with God’s lawl and holding firmly to it as God’s “servant,” having done “what is just and right,” he appeals for greater protection from immodest, lawl-breaking presumptuous oppressors. Still, he recognizes: “75 I know, O Jehovahz, that your judgements are righteous And that you have troubled me in your faithfulness.” May we place our full trust in God, confident that: “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.” The goal is faithful endurance to God, holding firmly to His way, accepting what God permits (that is common to men), while hoping in the best possible outcome under the circumstances. Soon, God’s kingdom will usher in greater blessings, leading us to a world of righteousness and genuine peace earthwide! (PSalm 37:9-11; 2PEter 3:13).

123 My eyes have grown weary waiting for your salvation And for your righteous promise.

NEED FOR ENDURANCE. (:123) The psalmist acknowledges that we may have to learn “endurance”—having acquired the self-control or fortitude necessary to hold firmly to God’s standards—Christian endurance enables us to do so for a period of time, waiting on deliverance from God. Jehovahz has promised eventual deliverance, but we realize that some faithful ones have had to endure years of oppression. As God’s kingdom is upon us, the need for such prolonged endurance may lessen, but may we accept what God allows in faithfulness, confident in relief in God’s due time. James begins his exhortation with these words: “2 Consider it all joy, my brothers, when you meet with various trials, 3 knowing as you do that this tested quality of your faith produces endurance. 4 But let endurance complete its work, so that you may be complete and sound in all respects, not lacking in anything.” Yes, we can learn to maintain joy, or deep satisfaction, doing right amidst troubles, as Christ stated: “11 “Happy are you when people reproach you and persecute you and lyingly say every sort of crooked thing against you for my sake. 12 Rejoice and be overjoyed, since your reward is great in the heavens, for in that way they persecuted the prophets prior to you.” Even those with Earthly Paradise hopes, like the prophets of old, will find great reward in such faithful endurance. Rather than tiring, Paul encourages examining Christ's example: "3 Indeed, consider closely the one who has endured such hostile speech from sinners against their own interests, so that you may not get tired and give out in your selves." (HEBre 12:1-3). Certainly God will supply us needed strength to remain faithful! God's word says, for instance: "13 For all things I have the strength through the one who gives me power." (PHiliP 4:13). Such endurance produces an even stronger hope in the promised endless rewards!

124 Show your loyal love to your servant, And teach me your regulations (regulines).

LOYALLY AIM FOR THE RIGHT TARGET. (:124) The psalmist appeals to God for His expression of loyal love. With all that David had to endure from his enemies and from Saul, afterward he stated about Jehovahz, at Psalm 18:25: “25 With someone loyal you act in loyalty; With the blameless man you deal blamelessly.” May we prove to be a servant of the Most High God, Jehovahz, and seek to be taught from Him necessary standards, or regulating guidelines, adhering to such faithfully. We may appeal to God on the basis of the ransom sacrifice of Christ, to cover any sins as we strive to be obedient to Christian standards. Let us continue aiming for the target of righteousness, having faith, or deep trust, in Jehovahz, realizing that “without faith it is impossible to please God well, for whoever approaches God must believe that he is and that he becomes the rewarder of those steadfastly seeking him.”

PSALM 119 COMMENTARY

Stanza 16 Theme: PROVE A LOYAL SERVANT OF GOD, BY PRACTICING WHAT IS JUST AND RIGHT.

The 8 verses of this stanza show God looks after the welfare of His loyal servants, who practice what is just and right. How might understanding help us to know God’s reminders, and why should we highly value God’s commandments?

Stanza 16B:

125 I am your servant; give me understanding, So that I may know your reminders.

126 The time has come for Jehovahz to act, For they have broken your lawl.

127 That is why I love your commandments More than gold, even fine gold.

128 Therefore, I consider every instruction from you to be right; I hate every false path.

125 I am your servant; give me understanding, So that I may know your reminders.

OBEYING GOD, PRAY FOR DIVINE UNDERSTANDING. (:125) Proving a loyal “servant” of Jehovahz, by seeking what is just and right, with good judgement and discernment, he therefore could receive from God more divine understanding. This quality involves seeing correctly matters regarding divine knowledge, and how they interrelate to make the whole of it. At the same time, what's the point of seeking understanding of things, without also learning to discern what is good from bad, or true knowledge from false, as clarified by God, so as to use the knowledge gained in the most beneficial way? Having both, discernment and understanding, the psalmist considered this quality essential “so that I may know your reminders”. God’s reminders can cover the entire scope of worshipping Him acceptably, keeping His lawl. Understanding true worship fully makes possible a deeper appreciation for God’s reminders, seeing the reasons for them.

126 The time has come for Jehovahz to act, For they have broken your lawl.

JEHOVAHZ'S TIME TO ACT. (:126) When Jehovahz considers it right to do so, He may act at any time to support or protect His faithful servants, or even the interests of all mankind. Of course, He, our Maker, God, is motivated by deep love to do so, for His own creation of humanity, and also for His own reputation as a loving and just God, worthy of our devotion. 2Corinthians 3:17 says of this God: “17 Now Jehovahz is the Spirit, and where the spirit of Jehovahz is, there is freedom.” While Jehovahz is a God of true freedom, there must be lawl for the benefit of His servants, to make possible living peaceably and happily with respect to God and one another. Such lawl from God is called "the perfect (or, complete) lawl that belongs to freedom (or, liberty)" (James 1:25). God’s authority is above that of any other ruler, and His lawl should thus be appreciated and respected by such ones, as it involves the everlasting benefit of all. When the spiritual and eternal happiness of many humans are under severe threat, Jehovahz may well step in to save His good and loving purpose for mankind.

127 That is why I love your commandments More than gold, even fine gold.

LOVING GOD'S COMMANDS MEAN LIFE. (:127) Thus we should, like the psalmist, highly value God’s commandments, for they contribute to the eternal welfare and happiness of all humans. While “gold” or money is necessary to get along in life, as this future king well understood, and which he was not seeking to part with, nevertheless he placed a higher priority on God’s word or lawl that serves to promote wise and happy living. It is as stated at Ecclesiastes 7:12: “12 For wisdom is a protection just as money is a protection, but the advantage of knowledge is this: Wisdom preserves the life of its owner.” Jesus/Joshalz showed that God himself can provide materially for His servants, as they put God’s will first in life. In fact, he revealed that only one can be put first—either God or Riches. He said, at Matthew 6:24: “24 “No one can slave for two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will stick to the one and despise the other. You cannot slave for God and for Riches.” The psalmist thus chose to love God and His lawl more than money itself, but was in no way against having or using money in ways that truly honor God and are beneficial, respecting God 's commandments. Thus, of course, he was not choosing to give up his right to material wealth. But eternal life is not available for a monetary price. One must come to love God and others in a genuine way, in harmony with godly wisdom, learning God’s word and lawl, having faith, or deep trust in God and His Son, getting to know them well, to “get a firm hold on the real life”—the everlasting life God has prepared for those who “continue loving Him.” (JOHn 17:3; 1TImo 6:19; JAMes 1:12).

128 Therefore, I consider every instruction from you to be right; I hate every false path.

GOD'S RIGHT AND LOVING GUIDANCE. (:128) Likewise, God’s commandments are right and truly beneficial to humanity. The psalmist found this true as he lived by God’s lawl, kept His orders, and followed His genuine instructions, even in detail. He found that doing so helped him handle various situations in a good, practical way, even to the point of saving his life! (v.50,93). He came to love God deeply for His qualities, and His good guidance. Every path leading away from God and His lawl he thus came to hate. Psalm 97:10 exhorts: “10 O you who love Jehovahz, hate what is bad. He is guarding the lives of his loyal ones; He rescues them from the hand of the crooked.” While loving people as God does, may we, like the psalmist, come to hate all badness, which exerts a corrupting influence on people, interfering with their relationships with God and others, and hindering eternal life prospects. Deep respect for God, in fact, involves hating badness. As godly wisdom speaks, Proverbs 8:13 says: “13 The hoss of Jehovahz means the hating of bad. I hate self-exaltation and egopride and the bad way and perverse speech.” May we do what we can to promote the eternal welfare and happiness of all humans, loving the way of genuine Christianity, the “way of the truth.” (2PEter 2:2).

PSALM 119 COMMENTARY

PSALM 119 STANZA 17

Stanza 17 Theme: GOD’S WORDS IMPART UNDERSTANDING, THOSE LOVING GOD’S NAME ARE SHOWN FAVOR.

These verses express love for various aspects of God’s word, including His reminders and commandments. Why does the psalmist sigh over those not keeping God’s word?

Stanza 17A:

129 Your reminders are wonderful. That is why I observe them.

130 The disclosure of your words brings light, Giving understanding to the naive.

131 I open my mouth wide and sigh, Because I long for your commandments.

132 Turn to me and show me favor, In keeping with your judgement toward those loving your name.

129 Your reminders are wonderful. That is why I observe them.

GOD'S REMINDERS BENEFIT US. Clearly the psalmist was well-motivated to obey Jehovahz, not doing so out of morbid fear of torment or excessive “discipline”, although not wanting to displease Him or be punished. Love for God and His marvelous inspired word primarily moved him, as he developed deep appreciation. The reminders we receive by reading God’s word regularly, and being where the truth of God’s word is discussed, and in association with those of such faith, truly do better our lives and promote happiness and contentment. The psalmist thus found them to be wonderful, despite pressures to ignore or violate God’s lawl by wrongdoers. May we likewise consider God’s word carefully, deepening our appreciation for it. As Peter instructed early Christians, including those not yet holding to Christian standards, at 1Peter 2:2-3: “2 As newborn infants, form a longing for the untainted milk of the word, so that by means of it you may grow to salvation, 3 provided you have tasted that the Lord is kind.”

130 The disclosure of your words brings light, Giving understanding to the naive, or simple.

THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD. (:130) As a lamp needs to be lit, and as a light needs to be turned on to function, so God’s words need to be disclosed, shared, or “unfolded” to enlighten people to divine truth. This imparts understanding to those lacking—the naive, or those less aware. Jesus told his disciples: “14 “You are the light of the world. A city cannot be hid when located on a mountain. 15 People light a lamp and set it, not under a basket, but on the lampstand, and it shines on all those in the house. 16 Likewise, let your light shine before men, so that they may see your fine works and give glory to your Father who is in the heavens.” Thus, as God’s word is revealed and explained, all may listen and apply it’s counsel, causing genuine listeners to become “rich in fine works” as a good example for others in imitation of God and Christ. (1Timo 6:18).

131 I open my mouth wide and sigh, Because I long for your commandments.

GOD'S GOOD GUIDANCE. Have you ever yearned to know how best to handle a situation? The principles of God’s word, and His commandments, help us to make better decisions, knowing the right way to go. While Christians operate mostly on Christian standards and principles of truth such as Christ’s example and teachings, Christian commands also help ones live by God's lawl. Take for instance Paul’s words to the Romans, at 12:9-12. Here we have several very simple, direct commands, instructing in the application of godly principles: “9 Let your love be without hypocrisy. Detest what is crooked; cling to what is good. 10 In brotherly love have tender affection for one another. Take the lead in showing honor to one another. 11 Be industrious, not lazy. Be aglow with the spirit. Slave for Jehovahz. 12 Rejoice in the hope. Endure under tribulation. Persevere in prayer.” Do you see the benefit of pondering such commandments, and why the psalmist may have longed for those found in the Lawl of God? Such commands can cause one now to act in a wise way, even while still growing in understanding of Christian truth. (v.100).

132 Turn to me and show me favor, In keeping with your judgement toward those loving your name.

RIGHT MOTIVATION. “Loving [God’s] name” is one of the most helpful motivations to learning and applying Bible truth. If we seek to uphold God’s reputation in the way we live, honoring Him and showing others the right way to go, we can unselfishly grow in godly wisdom. We should strive to be pure, seeking God’s honor far above our own (1Cori 10:31). On this basis, the psalmist pleaded for God’s favor. We are also reminded of the rich meaning of God's name, as "He who causes to become, grow, or increase." He has proven to be a great beginning, or starter of things, and making good things grow, just as Paul eluded to in 1 Corinthians 3, referring to the planting and watering of truth within hearts, "but God kept making it grow, so that neither is the one that plants anything, nor is the one who waters, but God who makes it grow." While those on earth, including those in high station, often rightly receive honor for good works, shouldn't we also when appropriate recognize and acknowledge the God whose blessing made it possible?!

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PSALM 119 COMMENTARY

Stanza 17B:

133 Guide my steps safely by your saying; May nothing crooked dominate me.

134 Rescue me from oppressive men, And I will keep your orders.

135 Make your face shine upon your servant, And teach me your instructions.

136 Tears stream down from my eyes Because people do not keep your lawl.

133 Guide my steps safely by your saying; May nothing crooked dominate me.

TRUST GOD'S GUIDANCE. Recall that God has given us free will, and wants us to use that gift in harmony with His guidance, choosing to do right before Him. While we set goals and make plans, Jehovahz is the One with the right and the wisdom to know what is good and bad for us. This is evidently what is meant in Jeremiah 10:23, which states: “23 I well know, O Jehovahz, that man’s way does not belong to him. It does not belong to man who is walking even to direct his step.” We need the light of divine truth to successfully walk with God. Deciding to step is similar to deciding whether to believe something to be true. Proverbs 14:15 says “The naive person believes every word, But the shrewd [or, “foresighted person”] one ponders each step.” The primary lesson may be, “think before you act.” Speaking of God, Joshualz' (Jesus) said “I always do the things pleasing to Him.” Thus the psalmist pleads for God to guide his steps safely. Along with this he asks for nothing crooked to dominate him, or as another translation reads, “Don’t let any sin be my master.” (NIRV). For this to be true, we should aim to view things as God does, asking “What would God have me do, and why?” or similarly “What would Christ do in this situation?” This is the point of Proverbs 3:5-7--here it is in GNT (Curly brackets mine): “5 Trust in the LORD {Jehovahz} with all your heart. Never rely on what you think you know. 6 Remember the LORD in everything you do, and he will show you the right way. 7 Never let yourself think that you are wiser than you are; simply obey the LORD and refuse to do wrong.” May we trust and appreciate God’s guidance in our life, for our everlasting success and happiness!

134 Rescue me from oppressive men, And I will keep your orders.

FIRMLY STANDING. The indication is here that “oppressive men” may try to interfere with such godly obedience. The psalmist pleads for God’s intervention, that he may be free to obey God, to keep His orders. While endeavoring to keep all of God’s commandments, recall that such orders typically involve the most serious and urgent commands. These are a major part of the framework of God’s lawl, as the structural supports in a house. This is built on the foundation of faith in Christ and essential teachings of Christian truth. May we come to identify the orders of God and Christ, appreciating their vital role in supporting a happy and successful life before God, especially with the future blessings of God’s kingdom.

135 Make your face shine upon your servant, And teach me your regulanelines.

GOD'S NAME UPON HIS PEOPLE. Clearly, the psalmist sought God’s favor and blessing, as he wanted to follow even appropriate specific guidance from God. Isaiah says of Israel: “13 And all your sons will be taught by Jehovahz, And the peace of your sons will be abundant.” (Isaiah 54:13). The Christian apostle Paul referred to the “Israel of God” as those walking orderly by Christian conduct. (Galat 6:16). Thus those being taught by Jehovahz God would come to have abundant peace, in harmony with prophecies regarding the blessings of life under God’s rulership. Psalm 37:11 says “11 But the meek will possess the earth, And they will find exquisite delight in the abundance (or, fulfillment) of peace.” Regarding God’s face shining upon the psalmist, this may be understood in the light of Numbers 6:22-27: “22 Then Jehovahz said to Moses: 23 “Tell Aaron and his sons, ‘This is the way you should bless the people of Israel. Say to them: 24 “May Jehovahz bless you and safeguard you. 25 May Jehovahz make his face shine upon you, and may he favor you. 26 May Jehovahz lift up his face toward you and grant you peace.”’ 27 And they must place my name upon the people of Israel, that I may bless them.” May we ever look to Jehovahz and honor Him as the Ultimate Source of genuine peace and happiness!

136 Tears stream down from my eyes Because people do not keep your lawl.

THE VALUE OF GOD'S LAWL. Thus, the peace and happiness that all people seek can only be truly found in harmony with God and His word through Christ, who embodied the lawl. The psalmist clearly cared deeply about people enough to feel for those not recognizing Jehovahz God’s desire and ability to help them prosper spiritually and otherwise. Psalm 19:7-10 sums up the value of God’s lawl: “7 The lawl of Jehovahz is perfect, restoring strength. The reminder of Jehovahz is trustworthy, making the naive (simple) one wise. 8 The orders from Jehovahz are righteous, causing the heart to rejoice; The commandment of Jehovahz is clean, making the eyes shine [“enlightening the eyes”, AMP]. 9 The fear of Jehovahz is pure, lasting forever. The judgements of Jehovahz are true, altogether righteous. 10 They are more desirable than gold, Than much fine gold, And sweeter than honey, the honey that drips from the combs.” The Christian apostle Paul likewise felt for people, in imitation of Christ, recognizing their spiritual need. He wrote, at 1Corinthians 9:19,22-23: "For though I am free from all people, I have made myself the slave to all, so that I may gain as many people as possible...To the weak I became weak, in order to gain the weak. I have become all things to people of all sorts, so that I might by all possible means save some. 23 But I do all things for the sake of the good news, in order to share it with others." Paul recognized the Christian order to share the "happy hope" and good news concerning Christ and God's kingdom with others, and prepared himself to do so at the right time, and in the right way. May we likewise be able to share real hope with others, on the basis of God's inspired word!

PSALM 119/5#13 COMMENTARY

PSALM 119 STANZA 18A

Stanza 18 Theme: IN SPITE OF TEMPORARY ILL TREATMENT BY ADVERSARIES, GOD IS TRUE AND JUST, HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS ETERNAL.

The 8 verses of this stanza remind us of God’s eternal righteousness, His reliable reminders, His trustworthy lawl. How is God’s saying thoroughly refined?

Stanza 18A:

137 You are righteous, O Jehovahz, And your judgements are fair.

138 The reminders you give are righteous And completely reliable.

139 My zeal consumes me, Because my adversaries have forgotten your words.

140 Your saying is thoroughly refined, And your servant loves it

137 You are righteous, O Jehovahz, And your judgements are fair.

'ALL HIS WAYS ARE JUSTICE' Moses sang, at Deuteronomy 32:3-5, "For I will declare the name of Jehovahz. Tell about the greatness of our God! 4 The Rock, perfect is his activity, For all his ways are justice. A God of faithfulness who is never unjust; Righteous and honest is he." May we keep in mind such thoughts when we see the wrongdoing of some, while God appeals to all to keep His ways. Those choosing to ignore God are hurting themselves and others, as they often act contrary to what is in mankind's best interests. God is kind, and not a fault-finder--He is not looking for ways to accuse us. Rather, He loves us, showering mankind with so many gifts, and wants us to be moved by His great love and the proven wisdom of His ways to love and obey Him in return (1John 4:8; 5:3; James 1:17).

138 The reminders you give are righteous And completely reliable.

APPRECIATE TRUSTWORTHY REMINDERS. We may thus put complete faith in the things God has commanded that His people be reminded of on a regular basis. The Christian apostle Peter was aware of the need to give such reminders. He stated at 2Peter 1:12, "For this reason I intend always to remind you of these things, although you know them and are well-established in the truth that is present in you." Such reminders would be in harmony with God's right ways and standards, being "righteous," adhering to God's lawl through Christ, and likewise trustworthy. May we not tire of hearing such reminders, expressed and explained in various ways, that we may come to know, understand, and love these, helping us to maintain our right standing with God and peace with our fellowman.

139 My zeal consumes me, Because my adversaries have forgotten your words.

NOT FORGETTING GOD’S WORDS. Psalm 69:9, written by David, says regarding God: "For sheer zeal for your house has eaten me up, And the very reproaches of those reproaching you have fallen upon me." Thus, as David stood up for true worship, he did receive some reproach from adversaries. Likewise here we find expressed zeal for true worship. Some of God's "words" that his adversaries may have forgotten were words about God's love and mercy, and God's warnings against such things as lies, robbing other people and slander. These things can cause much harm and are "detestable" to God, and have undesirable consequences. Proverbs 6:12 speaks of a "good-for-nothing man" walking with "crookedness of speech, winking with his eye, making signs with his foot, making indications with his fingers. 14 Perverseness is in his heart. He is fabricating something bad all the time. He keeps sending out merely contentions. 15 That is why suddenly there will come his disaster; in an instant he will be broken, and there will be no healing." This strong warning is there, though, so that such a one may repent before meeting such an end--a changed person may be the start of a new life that truly honors God! May such warnings be appreciated by all, remembering that God "is patient with YOU because he does not desire any to be destroyed (or killed) but desires all to attain to repentance."

140 Your saying is thoroughly refined, And your servant loves it.

WONDERFUL AND RELIABLE WORDS. It is 2Timothy 3:16-17 which says of God's word: "All Scripture is inspired of God and beneficial for teaching, for reproving [strong discipline], for setting things straight [setting properly], for disciplining in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be fully competent, completely equipped for every good work." The more we examine God's wonderful and reliable words we find evidence of it's wisdom and divine inspiration. This text is simplified in NIRV, reading: "God has breathed life into all of Scripture. It is useful for teaching us what is true. It is useful for correcting our mistakes. It is useful for making our lives whole again. It is useful for training us to do what is right. 17 By using Scripture, a man of God can be completely prepared to do every good thing." The psalmist David saw it's thorough truthfulness, and loved it--may we come to have the same appreciation!

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PSALM 119 (5#13) COMMENTARY

PSALM 119 STANZA 18B

Stanza 18 Theme: IN SPITE OF TEMPORARY ILL TREATMENT BY ADVERSARIES, GOD IS TRUE AND JUST, HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS ETERNAL.

The 8 verses of this stanza remind us of God’s eternal righteousness, His reliable reminders, His trustworthy lawl. How is God’s saying thoroughly refined, and how is it that God's lawl is truth?

Stanza 18B:

141 I am insignificant and disliked; Yet, I have not forgotten your orders.

142 Your righteousness is an eternal righteousness, And your lawl is truth.

143 Though distress and difficulty come upon me, I remain fond of your commandments.

144 The righteousness of your reminders is eternal. Give me understanding, so that I may keep living.

141 I am insignificant and disliked; Yet, I have not forgotten your orders.

HOPE IN GOD. Despite a future king, the psalmist's hardships and treatment cause him to become loved less by some, and to feel lowly. Yet he continued to hope in God, refusing to leave off God's orders, or highly serious and urgent commands. His genuine faith and hope was evidenced by godly obedience. May we likewise manifest deep trust in God and His lawl, primarily through Christ, to help or cope with trials, as well as prevent many difficulties caused by poor decisions.

142 Your righteousness is an eternal righteousness, And your lawl is truth.

THE WAY OF ETERNITY. God's righteousness, or way--encompassing His right lawls and standards--is clearly the way of eternity. Understandably, we are to ever live in a way that trusts our reliable God of love, and promotes real peace with Him and others, universally. Jehovahz loves truth rooted in unselfish love, and is the "God of truth." (ISAiah 65:16). His divine lawl is perfectly arranged to support such truth, encouraging us to live and act in harmony with it. Thus it can be said that Jehovahz's "law IS truth."

143 Even if distress and difficulty come upon me, I remain fond of your commandments.

DEVELOP ENDURANCE. While the psalmist was hoping to be saved from his adversaries, who may have been seeking to interfere with his doing God's will, he was nevertheless determined to do so, obeying God's word. (v. 94,112). Even after experiencing a time of peace from wrongdoers, it's clear that he still knew hardships could come. Psalm 34:19 says "Many are the hardships of the upright one, But Jehovahz rescues him from them all." Thus he was willing to experience "distress and difficulty" if God chose to allow it, and he would remain ever "fond of God's commandments." May we come to share such determination, looking forward to eventual true peace and prosperity among mankind, God’s will.

144 The righteousness of your reminders is eternal. Give me understanding, so that I may keep living.

ENJOY SPIRITUAL SUSTAINMENT. How will such genuine peace be maintained throughout eternity? God can see to it that his people receive occasional reminders, however often He considers it necessary. Recall Joshualz said "It is written, 'Man must live, not on bread alone, but on every word that comes from Jehovahz's mouth.'" (MATth 4:4). Just as we need and enjoy regular food, so we may likewise enjoy regular spiritual sustainment. As we grow in understanding, we can appreciate even more the need for the reminders Jehovahz gives, and how essential they are to life.

ETERNAL EXPRESS

PROGRESSING TOWARD UNITY

TRUTHFUL DOCTRINE, WITH LOVE AS THE OBJECTIVE. 1Timothy 1:3-5 The apostle Paul writes against teaching false doctrine, paying attention to false stories, and such things. Notice the counsel and it's purpose, or objective: "Just as I encouraged you to stay in Ephʹe·sus when I was about to go to Mac·e·doʹni·a, so I do now, in order for you to command certain ones not to teach different doctrine, 4 nor to pay attention to false stories and to genealogies. Such things end up in nothing useful but merely give rise to speculations rather than providing anything from God in connection with faith. 5 Really, the objective of this instruction is love out of a clean heart and out of a good conscience and out of faith without hypocrisy." What a fine aim! To avoid confusion, Paul's reference to genealogies did not mean we can't be interested in our family history--but this shouldn't become an obsession, as if our self-worth depends upon it. God loves each of us, and wants to bring back our loved ones where we can welcome them into God's Paradisaic new world of peace and righteousness!

BECOMING UNITED SPIRITUALLY. May our hearts be willing to embrace the truth of God as we come to see and appreciate it, as there were not many different Christian denominations in the first century. Rather, as Paul writes at 1Corinthians 1:10, "Now I urge you, brothers, through the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you should all speak in agreement and that there should be no divisions among you, but that you may be completely united in the same mind and in the same line of thought." Thus there is a truth of God's word, inspired by Him, that we can embrace, treasure, and teach. (2Timo 3:16-17). It follows, then, that even 12 tribes of Christianity can become united spiritually, the truth of God becoming the common denominator among them. The goal is true love in purity, holding a properly trained conscience, and genuine trust in God and other faithful ones, with due sincerity and faithfulness. May these lead us to true happiness, serving God whole-souled, if possible now alongside a loyal marriage partner, and other loved ones and friends, into an eternal Paradise.

EVERY FAMILY. 1Timothy 5:1-2 say: “5 Do not severely criticize an older man. On the contrary, appeal to him as a father, to younger men as brothers, 2 to older women as mothers, to younger women as sisters, with all chasteness.” Thus, the relatively young man Timothy was to treat all in the congregation with respect, as toward family members, treating younger women “as sisters, with all chasteness.” Genuine obedience to God along with such respectful treatment of one another with purity of heart and motives makes possible a truly united loving brotherhood worldwide as members of God’s family of worshippers. Of course, every family owes it's name to "the Father," Jehovahz. Ephesians 3:14-15 says: "For this reason I bend my knees to the Father, 15 to whom every family in heaven and on earth owes its name." But how much more God embraces as His children those loving Him and accepting His guidance in life (2Cori 6:16-18). Psalm 133:1 says: “133 Look! How good and how pleasant it is For brothers to dwell together in unity!” And 1Peter 1:22 agrees, saying “22 Now that you have purified yourselves by your obedience to the truth with unhypocritical brotherly affection as the result, love one another intensely from the heart."

DEVOTION TO GOD. 1Timothy 6 mentions that the genuine teaching of true Christianity accords with "godly devotion," which involves a close personal attachment to God, sincerely drawn to Him and therefore submissive and obedient to His loving guidance and word. v.3: "If any man teaches other doctrine and does not assent to healthful words, those of our Lord Jesus Christ, nor to the teaching that accords with godly devotion, he is puffed up [with pride], not understanding anything,...thinking that godly devotion is a means of gain. To be sure, it is a means of great gain, [this] godly devotion along with self-sufficiency. For we have brought nothing into the world, and neither can we carry anything out. So having adequacy and covering, we shall be content with these things."

KEEP MONEY IN IT'S PLACE. As we come to have true love in our hearts for God and others, we realize this is more important than loving money or the things money can buy, not that there's anything wrong with having material possessions, especially those that help us in pursuing the will of God and enable us to communicate with loved ones and friends. Having an inordinate love for money, however, leads to calamity, as God's inspired word continues in v.9-10: "But those who are determined to be rich fall into temptation and a snare and many senseless and harmful desires that plunge men into destruction and ruin.10 For the love of money is a root of all sorts of injurious things, and by reaching out for this love some have been led astray from the faith and have stabbed themselves all over with many pains."

Thus, let's keep money in it's place, and treasure the relationships we can have with God and others, as among the most important things in life.

GOLDEN BELLZ

Golden Bellz: 'Saltuday TO Salvtuday'

Regarding the 8-day Calendar, proven relevant due to evidence of being on a 400-day year cycle by changed weather patterns, etc., and that most realize involves largely two sets of daynames per 2 week cycle, highly regarded as sensible, apropos, now attention is directed to perhaps one of the last dayname changes to be recommended, that of the second Saturday that alternates with Psalmday, recommended to be Saltuday, but now just adding the 'v', Salvtuday, bringing additional meaning to an already meaningful dayname. The recommendation for this appeared previously, but let's break it down.

Saltuday previously layed emphasis on Salt as a preserving influence, and the new name is not intended to take anything away from that. This day should and still should remind us of preserving especially dear relationships, primarily with family and friends, but also neighbors, although perhaps more cautiously, as those not knowing us well are more apt or inclined sometimes to misinterpret or mistreat us--so more caution is in order, although this can also happen with family and friends, so be alert to that as well. ALSO, however, God is indeed blessing this day for more actual salt intake, boosting mineral and bicarbonate levels very important to body health and stamina, including heart function, etc. Little understood has been the benefit of teas to support this, such as Chamomile tea, a calmer, as well as Fenugreek or Pygeum which may be taken in capsule form for those lacking the appendix they were born with, having gassy effects associated with it's loss, and others such as Peppermint combined with Anise Seed, a licorice flavoring, providing important benefits, possibly including heart function. A true iodized salt, now with even recommended calcium-lactate added at the same amount as the potassium-iodide, is considered now to be the New Table Salt, half and half with Pink Himalayan, containing different but more assimilable minerals (NTSP). Another notion associated with Saltuday has been receiving Salary on this day, rather than the previous Prayerzday, which is a day off most work, but also possibly for entering pleas in court appearances, and with the name reminding of days when salt was used as payment, why not consider payment on this day instead, especially with automatic deposits, etc., for such reasons.

However, adding the 'v' to Sal v tuday, BUT Sticking with the 'a' not 'o', could be looked at in three (3) important ways combined into one . (1) Salt literal and spiritual, as in saving or preserving life and relationships, etc. (2) Solving, as in having God’s help to solve problems in relationships or otherwise. And (3), VT for ‘Valley Trader’, this is a newspaper listing of things people are selling or wanting to purchase, so if people get paid on this day, and heads of household may need to purchase things for the home for a fair or reduced price, less than brand new, they may contribute to the buying and selling that may seem to have become a ‘lost art’, and filling a real need monetarily between pawn shops and buying new, as well as supporting the enjoyable hobby or industry of antiques and collectibles, and the interest, ability or practice of determining their real value. And all this can be done in a respectful, peaceable way, upholding the restful spirit of the day as well! Again, the important notions of saving and preserving relationships, and solving problems are not diminished, and those who wish to attend church services more than twice a month or so likely wish to attend on this day as well. Therefore, this day could and should be thought of, even with church discussions and so on, among attending members, as a day for addressing anything that’s lingered, to successfully 'seek peace and pursue it', or to be among those making peace with others. Also this is a reminder to attend to such matters quickly throughout every week, ‘not to let sun set while still angry’. What a fine aim to have, as such peaceable or 'peace-making' ones are said in the Sermon on the Mount to be called 'Sons of God(z)', the Greatest Lover of Mankind in the Universe!

Saltuday NOW let's use Salvtuday!

GOLDEN BELLZ

WHAT HELPS OUR NATION ENDURE

Introduction, The U.S. Constitution Explained For Every American*, explains what has helped our nation to endure:

"In the United States, the Constitution--not the president, nor any elected leader--reigns supreme. Article VI declares succinctly: "This Constitution, and the Laws of the United States which shall be made in Pursuance thereof,...shall be the supreme Law of the Land." Americans for more than two centuries have treated the primacy of the Constitution as gospel, and that is no small part of our endurance as a nation. "Regime change" in the United States proceeds peacefully. One president passes the torch to the next, even if the two belong to opposing political parties. Representatives and senators come and go, but the Constitution provides the framework under which they all must govern."

Furthering this point, the first three Articles of the U.S. Constitution each address one of the three main branches of government, which balance each other. Some may think the Executive branch should be first. However, it is the Legislative Branch! Why? Rather than someone with executive authority just bossing others around, in this government blessed by God, laws need to exist first which those of the Executive carefully act upon, and are moved by, to carry out it's authority rightly and effectively, seeking to maintain peace with justice and so forth. Thus the second Article addresses the Executive branch, and the third the Judicial, which however refers back to the first, Legislative and Law as it's Authority. Of course, God's authority is not to be diminished, with His spirit blessing the formation of our Founding documents, with laws and bylaws associated with the Articles of Confederation, with what went into the original 66 Federalist Papers to New Yorkers, and rightly understanding divine wisdom from God.

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* p. 3, Copyright (c) 2016,2017 Ray Raphael