that we should keep them diligently
The phrase "that we should keep them" implies a responsibility on the part of believers to adhere to God's commandments. The use of "diligently" underscores the need for careful and persistent effort in observing these precepts. This is not a passive or occasional observance but an active and consistent commitment. In Deuteronomy 6:17, the Israelites are instructed to "diligently keep the commandments of the LORD your God." This reflects a broader biblical theme of obedience as a demonstration of faith and love for God (John 14:15). The diligent keeping of God's laws is seen as a path to blessing and prosperity, as indicated in Joshua 1:8, where meditating on and obeying the law is linked to success.

• The verse opens with a declaration of divine authority. The psalmist is not talking about human suggestions but commands set in place by God Himself.

• Psalm 119:89 says, “Your word, O LORD, is everlasting; it is firmly fixed in the heavens,” underscoring that what God ordains is permanent and unchanging.

• Isaiah 40:8 echoes, “The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God stands forever.”

• Because the Lord has “ordained” these directives, they stand above cultural trends, personal opinions, or shifting moralities.

• “Precepts” are the detailed instructions that guide daily living. They are not vague ideals but specific guidelines reflecting God’s character.

• Psalm 19:8 reminds us, “The precepts of the LORD are right, bringing joy to the heart; the commandments of the LORD are radiant, giving light to the eyes.”

• Jesus affirmed the sustaining power of these words in Matthew 4:4: “Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.”

• Treating Scripture as God-given precepts guards the heart against relativism and offers a sure foundation for choices, relationships, and worship.

• God’s purpose in revealing His precepts is obedience, not mere awareness.

• Deuteronomy 6:1-2 explains, “These are the commandments… that you may follow them… so that you may fear the LORD your God by keeping all His statutes and commandments.”

• Jesus put it simply in John 14:15, “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.”

• James 1:22 warns, “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.” Knowledge without obedience leads to self-deception; obedience proves genuine faith.

• The adverb raises the bar from casual compliance to wholehearted devotion.

• Joshua 22:5 urges, “But be very careful to keep the commandment… to love the LORD your God… with all your heart and with all your soul.”

• 2 Timothy 2:15 calls us to “Make every effort to present yourself approved to God.”

• Psalm 119:60 illustrates diligent obedience in practice: “I hurried without hesitating to keep Your commandments.”

• Diligence involves:

– Intentional study of Scripture—setting aside time daily.

– Swift, joyful obedience—acting promptly when truth is revealed.

– Perseverance—continuing steadfastly even when it’s inconvenient or costly.

Psalm 119:4 teaches that the LORD has sovereignly fixed His instructions, expecting His people to live by them with wholehearted, active, and persistent obedience. Because these precepts flow from an unchanging God, they deserve our constant, diligent attention and practice, turning knowledge into a life that honors Him.