You are good
This phrase acknowledges the inherent goodness of God, a central theme throughout the Bible. The goodness of God is foundational to His character and is reflected in His creation and actions. In Genesis 1, after each act of creation, God declares it "good," underscoring His nature. The goodness of God is also a source of comfort and assurance for believers, as seen in passages like Nahum 1:7, which states, "The LORD is good, a refuge in times of trouble." This goodness is not just moral perfection but also encompasses His kindness, mercy, and love.

and You do what is good
This part emphasizes that God's actions are consistent with His nature. His deeds are always righteous and just, as seen in Deuteronomy 32:4, which describes God as "a God of faithfulness and without iniquity, just and upright is He." The historical context of Israel's journey, including the Exodus and the giving of the Law, demonstrates God's good actions in guiding, protecting, and providing for His people. This assurance of God's good deeds is a call to trust in His plans and purposes, even when circumstances are challenging.

teach me Your statutes
This request reflects a desire for divine instruction and understanding of God's laws. The term "statutes" refers to the decrees and commandments given by God, particularly those found in the Torah. The psalmist's plea for teaching indicates a humble acknowledgment of the need for God's guidance in living a life that aligns with His will. This echoes the sentiment found in Psalm 25:4-5, where the psalmist asks God to "show me Your ways, LORD, teach me Your paths." The desire for instruction is also a recognition of the transformative power of God's Word, as seen in 2 Timothy 3:16-17, which speaks of Scripture's role in teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness.

1. The Psalmist
The author of Psalm 119, traditionally believed to be King David, who expresses a deep love for God's law and a desire for understanding and obedience.

2. God
The central figure in this verse, described as inherently good and the source of all good actions.

3. The Law/Statutes
Refers to God's commandments and teachings, which the Psalmist seeks to learn and follow.Understanding God's Nature
Recognize that God's nature is inherently good. This understanding should shape our trust in Him and His plans for our lives.

Seeking God's Guidance
Like the Psalmist, we should earnestly seek to learn and understand God's statutes, knowing that His teachings are rooted in His goodness.

Reflecting God's Goodness
As followers of Christ, we are called to reflect God's goodness in our actions and interactions with others.

Trust in God's Goodness
In times of uncertainty or difficulty, remember that God is good and His actions are for our ultimate benefit.

Prayer for Instruction
Regularly pray for God to teach and guide you in His ways, trusting that His statutes are for your good.(68) It is characteristic of this psalm that the higher the conception of the Divine nature, the more earnest becomes the prayer for knowledge of His will in relation to conduct.

Verse 68. - Thou art good, and doest good. Even chastening is a proof of thy goodness. By it thou "doest good" to thy servants (see Hebrews 12:10, 11). Teach me thy statutes. Impress thy Law upon me, even though it be by chastening.

Parallel Commentaries ...


You
אַתָּ֥ה (’at·tāh)
Pronoun - second person masculine singular
Strong's 859: Thou and thee, ye and you

are good,
טוֹב־ (ṭō·wḇ-)
Adjective - masculine singular
Strong's 2896: Pleasant, agreeable, good

and You do what is good;
וּמֵטִ֗יב (ū·mê·ṭîḇ)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Hifil - Participle - masculine singular
Strong's 2895: To be pleasing or good

teach
לַמְּדֵ֥נִי (lam·mə·ḏê·nî)
Verb - Piel - Imperative - masculine singular | first person common singular
Strong's 3925: To exercise in, learn

me Your statutes.
חֻקֶּֽיךָ׃ (ḥuq·qe·ḵā)
Noun - masculine plural construct | second person masculine singular
Strong's 2706: Something prescribed or owed, a statute


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OT Poetry: Psalm 119:68 You are good and do good (Psalm Ps Psa.)