Psalm 119 is the longest chapter in the Bible with 176 verses. This lengthy psalm has one subject: the Word of God. The writer of this amazing psalm was saturated with his subject. If this psalmist was indeed King David, we can understand why he was a man after God’s own heart. For David’s heart delighted in God’s Word. The Scripture, to this writer, was no strange thing. The Word of God was considered great. The doctrines, laws and precepts were not considered to be alien.
There are at least six synonyms used for Scripture in this measurable chapter. Law: It was employed of a single command or the whole body of the Law of Moses (Ps. 119:18). Testimonies: This word is used in reference to when the Law was placed in or near the Ark of the Covenant, and signified its “witness” (Ps. 119:103). Precepts: This particular word is drawn from the sphere of an officer, overseer, or one who had the responsibility to look into a matter closely and take action. When used in the Old Testament it is in reference to particular instructions from the Lord (Ps. 119:93). Statutes: This speaks of the binding power and permanence of Scripture as inscribed laws (Ps. 119:16). Commandments: This word emphasizes the authority of what God has said, and includes His absolute authority (Ps. 119:35). Judgments: This Hebrew word speaks of God as a Judge of His laws (Ps. 119:164).
Notice how the writer delights in the Word of God. His one desire is to understand and keep the commandments of God. The writer of Psalm 119 would rather have the Word of God than food (Psalm 119:103)! He would rather have God’s Word than wealth (Psalm 119:72; 127). He would rather study God’s Word than sleep (Psalm 119:147–148). He would choose the Word of God over hanging out with bad friends (Psalm 119:115).
Furthermore, the Word of God yields great rewards. How can a young man keep his way pure? By taking heed to God’s Word (Ps. 119:9). How can you keep yourself from being offended? By loving the Law of God (Psalm 119:165). How can you learn to hate evil? Through esteeming all of Scripture (Psalm 119:128) Hiding the Word of God in your heart will assist you in fighting against sin (Ps. 119:11). You can become a person of praise with God’s Word (Ps. 119:17). And you can be blessed if you will love the Word of God with your whole heart (Ps. 119:2, 56).
Beloved, the Word of God is great! This Book is not strange, its words are not strange, its principles and precepts are not strange, and its witness of the One True God is not strange. Rather, the Word is a lamp to my feet, and a light to my path (Ps. 119:105).