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 OF STANZAS 15-19

* Possibly in a future review

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

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?

*113 I love less the half-hearted ones, But I love (all of) your lawl.

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

115 Stay away from me, you evil men, 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.

*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 devious 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 awe of your judgements.

Thus considering this portion of the psalm helps us see the benefit of highly valuing God's lawl, His word, His saving power, and His good and righteous judgements.

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

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

Verses 121-128:

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

* 122 Guarantee the welfare of your servant; May the presumptuous (defying your law) 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 instructions.

* 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.

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

These verses express love for God’s reminders and commandments; Why does the psalmist sigh over those not keeping God’s lawl?

* 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.

133 Guide my steps safely by your saying; May nothing wayward 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.

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

These verses remind us of God’s eternal righteousness, His reliable reminders, His trustworthy lawl. How is God's saying thoroughly refined?

Verses 137-144:

* 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.

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

* 142 Your righteousness is an eternal righteousness, And your law 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.

Stanza 19 Theme: CALL UPON JEHOVAHZ WITH FAITH, HOPE, AND INTEGRITY.

We’re reminded that when we wholeheartedly call upon Jehovahz He will hear and answer us. We must do so in faith, seeking integrity, and be persistent in our requests. How is knowledge of God to last forever?

Verses 145-152:

* 145 I call with my whole heart. Answer me, O Jehovahz. Your instructions I will observe.

146 I call on you; save me! I will keep your reminders.

* 147 I have been awake before dawn to cry for help, For your words are my hope.

148 My eyes open before the night watches, So that I can ponder over your saying.

149 Do listen to my voice because of your loyal love. O Jehovahz, preserve me alive according to your justice.

150 Those who engage in shameful conduct come near; They are far away from your lawl.

* 151 You are near, O Jehovahz, And all your commandments are truth.

* 152 Long ago I learned about your reminders, That you have established them to last forever.

PSALM 119 COMMENTARY

PSALM 119 STANZA 19A

Stanza 19 Theme: CALL UPON JEHOVAHZ WITH FAITH, HOPE, AND INTEGRITY

In the 8 verses of this stanza, we’re reminded that when we wholeheartedly call upon Jehovahz He will hear and answer us. We must do so in faith, seeking integrity, and be persistent in our requests. How is knowledge of God to last forever?

Stanza 19A

145 I call with my whole heart. Answer me, O Jehovahz. Your regulines I will observe.

146 I call on you; save me! I will keep your reminders.

147 I have been awake before dawn to cry for help, For your words are my hope.

148 My eyes open before the night watches, So that I can ponder over your saying.

145 I call with my whole heart. Answer me, O Jehovahz. Your regulines [governing or authoritative guidelines and procedures] I will observe.

TRUE, LIVING FAITH NOT MERE BELIEF. (:145) Clearly the psalmist loved receiving answers from Jehovahz regarding his pleas, whole-heartedly calling upon Him. The psalmist makes known through several verses that doing so includes observing God’s instructions, seeking integrity to Him. He is determined to please the God of love. Thus genuine faith in God is not mere belief, but is accompanied by actions that prove it’s sincerity. James writes: “14 Of what benefit is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but he does not have works? That faith cannot save him, can it? 15 If any brothers or sisters are lacking clothing and enough food for the day, 16 yet one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but you do not give them what they need for their body, of what benefit is it? 17 So, too, faith by itself, without works, is dead.” Thus the good knowledge we take in must be pondered to examine how it should affect us, what actions or obedience it should inspire, thereby reaching our figurative heart.

146 I call on you; save me! I will keep your reminders.

LIFE OWED TO GOD. Romans 10:13 quotes Joel 2:32 in saying: “13 For “everyone who calls on the name of Jehovahz will be saved.” To be saved by God, should not this calling be as in the previous verse—whole-heartedly? The psalmist thus again expresses his determination to obey God, saying he will keep God’s reminders. He realizes that we owe God our life, and thus our obedience, and he does not want his life or salvation to somehow be in vain. As expressed in a later verse (v.152), God has established His reminders to last forever—thus may we be in the habit of calling on Jehovahz, seeking His guidance and expressing appreciation for the reminders He gives us regularly, for our eternal happiness and benefit!

147 I have been awake before dawn to cry for help, For your words are my hope.

FAITH AND PERSISTENCE FOR SUPPORT. If we face distress or hardship like the psalmist, may we supplicate Jehovahz for help as needed. He clearly found strength and comfort from God’s word of promise to him. Waking early gave him a quiet time to prayerfully reflect on God’s words, and remember the hope they have inspired within him. By enduring hardship with integrity, such hope becomes ever stronger in the promises God has made to us. He does promise support, but we must, like the psalmist, put our faith, or active trust, in Him and His words. We must also be persistent in our requests. Joshualz gave illustrations highlighting the need for such persistence. The lesson: “9 So I say to you, keep on asking, and it will be given you; keep on seeking, and you will find; keep on knocking, and it will be opened to you. 10 For everyone asking receives, and everyone seeking finds, and to everyone knocking, it will be opened.” May we likewise seek God’s help, hoping in God’s words of wisdom and promise.

148 My eyes open before the night watches, So that I can ponder over your saying.

PONDER GOD'S WORD, TO APPLY IT. Here the psalmist was evidently in the habit of opening his eyes after getting some rest, but before the night watches began, “that [he could] ponder over [God’s] saying.” How refreshing and beneficial God’s word is to us! Recall the writer of Psalm 1 stated: “1 Happy is the man who does not walk according to the advice of the crooked And does not stand on the path of sinners And does not sit in the seat of scoffers. 2 But his delight is in the word of Jehovahz, And he reads His word in an undertone day and night.” This expression means pondering God’s word, reflecting upon it’s application to one’s own life. The result: “3 He will be like a tree planted by streams of water, A tree that produces fruit in its season, The foliage of which does not wither. And everything he does will succeed.” May we likewise make time to reflect on, or ponder, God’s word, to make beneficial application to our life, including our dealings with family members and others. We also ponder God's word as we consider how best to handle the situations that come up each day, trusting God's word, direction, or instructions.

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PSALM 119 STANZA 19B

Stanza 19 Theme: CALL UPON JEHOVAHZ WITH FAITH, HOPE, AND INTEGRITY.

We’re reminded that when we wholeheartedly call upon Jehovahz He will hear and answer us. We must do so in faith, seeking integrity, and be persistent in our requests. How is knowledge of God to last forever?

Stanza 19B:

149 Do listen to my voice because of your loyal love. O Jehovahz, preserve me alive according to your justice.

150 Those who engage in shameful conduct come near; They are far away from your lawl.

151 You are near, O Jehovahz, And all your commandments are truth.

152 Long ago I learned about your reminders, That you have established them to last forever.

149 Do listen to my voice because of your loyal love. O Jehovahz, preserve me alive according to your justice.

JEHOVAHZ HEARS PEOPLE OF ALL SORTS. God’s “loyal love” does move Him to be the “Hearer of prayer”. Psalm 65:2 says in full: “ 2 O Hearer of prayer, to you people of all sorts will come.” People from all walks of life can respond to Jehovahz’z word, and turn to Him, learning to “draw close to” Him. He in turn, will draw close to us (James 4:8). Still, God loved us first, by creating us with many abilities to derive much happiness in life, and by sending His Son to instruct and offer sacrifice for sin. Romans 5:8 says “8 But God recommends his own love to us in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” In doing so, God has demonstrated great kindness, even “undeserved kindness” or grace, for which we should be duly grateful. The psalmist once again pleads to be preserved alive, in harmony with God’s just and fair ways. He had great faith that Jehovahz is able to rescue him from distress or hardship. May we do our best to please God, having faith while seeking obedience fully, as we grow in discernment and understanding.

150 Those who engage in shameful conduct come near; They are far away from your lawl.

HELP REPENTANT ONES, GUARD COMPANIONSHIP. When people, even sinful ones, realize God’s merciful pleas to help them, happily they may seek out God’s word or guidance, and we want to do what we should to assist them. Recall how much God wants “all to attain to repentance”! Still we should be careful to guard our closest associations. God’s word warns us, at 1Corinthians 15:33, “Don’t let anyone fool you. ‘Bad companions make a good person bad.’ (NIRV). Those engaging in “shameful conduct” are described in NIV as “those who devise evil [or harmful] schemes.” In doing so, they reveal themselves to be “far away from [God’s] lawl.” We need to help people to appreciate God’s lawl through Christ as life-sustaining and vital to good inner peace and friendships. This proper attitude toward God and His word is a key. On the other hand, we can be corrupted by seeking to please those who are not inclined to view God’s word or lawl in that way. May we help truly repentant ones find happiness in a faithful course, and treasure good companions, who are humbly willing to submit to God’s ways, desiring to please God along with us.

151 You are near, O Jehovahz, And all your commandments are truth.

‘REALLY FIND HIM’ We may rejoice at the nearness of Jehovahz—the One we can access by prayer at any time, anywhere. The apostle Paul told the men of Athens, concerning God, “26 And he made out of one man every nation of men to dwell on the entire surface of the earth...27 so that they would seek God, if they might grope for him and really find him, although, in fact, he is not far off from each one of us.” Thus Jehovahz is not far away even from those somewhat unfamiliar with His word, the Bible. He cares deeply for all mankind, as Paul continues: “28 For by him we have life and move and exist, even as some of your own poets have said, ‘For we are also his descendants.’” Also, all of God’s commandments “are truth.” As Psalm 19:8 says, “the commandment of the Lord is pure and bright, enlightening the eyes.” (AMP). Thus keeping God’s commands enable us to serve God fully, living in harmony with divine truth, and helping us avoid spiritual blindness or darkness. We may thus see divine truth more clearly.

152 Long ago I learned about your reminders, That you have established them to last forever.

‘THE DEPTH OF GOD'S...WISDOM’ How we can appreciate God’s refined word, the wisdom of which has proven true on many levels! “33 O the depth of God’s riches and wisdom and knowledge! How unsearchable his judgements are and beyond tracing out his ways are!” God’s word itself contains reminders that we all need to maintain our spiritual awareness and faithfulness to God, into eternity! Clearly from this statement of the psalmist, the knowledge of God will “last forever,” along with needed reminders from Him. Isaiah 40:8 says: “8 The green grass dries up, The blossom withers, But the word of our God endures forever.” Thus the word of God, from Genesis to Revelation (with it’s climactic charm), 66 or 70 books, if separating the 5 books of Psalms, and now more with realization of further books or letters that were inspired to be included, is a treasure trove of divine knowledge that we can enjoy and appreciate for all time to come, as the holy book that introduced mankind to it’s breathtaking Author, the Creator, Jehovahz God. Any additional “scrolls,” unnumbered in Revelation, will no doubt likewise encourage lovers of divine truth, as well as any further revealed will of Jehovahz, on into eternity.

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.