In what ways can we seek God's help in understanding His judgments? Breathing the Prayer of Psalm 119 : 175 “Let me live to praise You, and may Your judgments sustain me.” (Psalm 119:175) Why the Psalmist Turns to God’s Judgments - God’s judgments (His decisions, decrees, and standards) are a source of strength, not fear. - By asking that these judgments “sustain” him, the writer admits he cannot understand or apply them without divine help. - Praise and insight travel together: as we grasp His ways, our mouths fill with worship. Practical Ways to Seek God’s Help - Continual prayer for understanding • Psalm 119:18 “Open my eyes that I may behold wondrous things from Your law.” • James 1:5 “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God…” - Meditating on the Word, not skimming it • Psalm 119:97–99 reminds us meditation brings wisdom “above my teachers.” • Slow, thoughtful reflection invites the Spirit to illuminate truth (John 16:13). - Obedient response to what is already clear • Psalm 111:10 “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom.” Awe-filled obedience positions the heart for further light. • John 7:17 promises more understanding to the one willing to do God’s will. - Humbly depending on the Holy Spirit • 1 Corinthians 2:12 “We have received… the Spirit who is from God, that we may understand what God has freely given us.” • Ask the Spirit to bridge the distance between ancient text and present need. - Comparing Scripture with Scripture • Psalm 119:160 “The entirety of Your word is truth.” • Cross-references guard us from isolating a verse and missing the full picture of God’s judgments. - Fellowship with mature believers • Proverbs 11:14 speaks of safety in “many counselors.” • Faithful teachers sharpen our perception and model how to live out divine decisions. - Sustained praise while learning • Psalm 119:171 “My lips pour forth praise, for You teach me Your statutes.” • Thanksgiving keeps the heart soft, ready to receive fresh insight. Living the Verse Today Seeking God’s help in understanding His judgments is a rhythm: ask, listen, obey, and praise. As we echo the psalmist’s cry—“Let me live to praise You”—the Lord answers by letting His judgments not merely inform us, but sustain us every step of the way. |
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