In what ways can we "keep the testimonies" as instructed in Psalm 119:88? Understanding Psalm 119:88 “Revive me according to Your loving devotion, that I may obey the testimony of Your mouth.” (Psalm 119:88) David links personal revival with active obedience. “Testimony” points to every revealed word of God—His laws, promises, warnings, and recorded acts. To “keep” them is to guard, treasure, and live them out. What Are “Your Testimonies”? • God’s written words (Psalm 119:2,31) • His covenant acts—creation, redemption, judgment (Exodus 20:1-2) • The person and work of Christ, the Living Word (John 1:14; Revelation 19:10) Daily Practices to Keep the Testimonies • Read systematically – “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth.” (Joshua 1:8) – Set a steady pace: whole-Bible plan, portion a day, audible Scripture while commuting. • Memorize and meditate – “I have hidden Your word in my heart, that I might not sin against You.” (Psalm 119:11) – Use index cards, phone apps, or family recitation at meals. • Obey immediately – “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only.” (James 1:22) – When a passage convicts, act on it before the day ends. • Speak Scripture – “Teach them diligently to your children…talk of them.” (Deuteronomy 6:7) – Integrate verses into conversation, texts, and social media. • Pray Scripture back to God – Turn commands into requests for strength; turn promises into praise. Community Practices • Gather under the Word – “They were continually devoting themselves to the apostles’ teaching.” (Acts 2:42) – Prioritize worship services and Bible classes. • Mutual exhortation – “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly…admonishing one another.” (Colossians 3:16) – Small groups, accountability partners, family worship. • Model the testimonies publicly – Honest business dealings, marriage fidelity, generous giving—visible obedience that showcases Scripture’s truth. Heart Attitudes That Sustain Obedience • Dependence: “Revive me” acknowledges we need God’s empowering grace (Psalm 119:88). • Delight: “I rejoice in Your word like one who finds great spoil.” (Psalm 119:162) • Fear of the Lord: “My flesh trembles in awe of You.” (Psalm 119:120) • Love for Christ: “If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word.” (John 14:23) Encouragement from Parallel Texts • 2 Timothy 3:16-17—Scripture equips “for every good work.” • 1 John 2:3-5—Keeping His word assures the believer of genuine fellowship. • Psalm 119:1-2—Blessing is tied to walking and keeping His testimonies. By cultivating these practices and attitudes, we actively “keep the testimonies” and experience the revival David craved—life shaped, guarded, and energized by the very words of God. |
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