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Day 274

Psalm 119:4 "You have commanded us to keep Your precepts diligently."

Day 274 – Psalm 119:1-8

“You have commanded us to keep Your precepts diligently.” Psalm 119:4

A DIVINE COMMAND

God had a plan when He gave His commandments to Israel through Moses. The psalmist reflected on the purpose of God giving His commandment and also his personal response.

“You have commanded us
To keep Your precepts diligently.
Oh, that my ways were directed
To keep Your statutes!
Then I would not be ashamed,
When I look into all Your commandments.
I will praise You with uprightness of heart,
When I learn Your righteous judgments.
I will keep Your statutes;
Oh, do not forsake me utterly!”
Psalm 119:4-8

1. God’s command

This was clear to the psalmist. God desired His precepts to be kept diligently.

a) God’s laws were designed for man’s well-being.
b) His laws were good and holy.
c) Obedience was required.

2. An honest self-assessment

a) The psalmist admitted that he had not kept God’s statutes diligently.
b) He knew and accepted that there was a penalty for not keeping God’s precepts.
c) He pleaded with God not to forsake him utterly.

3. An Important response

a) A heart-felt wish was expressed
“Oh, that my ways were directed to keep Your statutes!” (Psalm 119:5).
b) Hope was also present with the psalmist (Psalm 119:6-8).
i) One day, he would not be ashamed when he reads God’s word with understanding.
ii) He will be able to offer praise that comes from an upright heart.
iii) He looks forward to being able to keep God’s word when he has learned it better.