What does it mean to "cling" in the context of Psalm 119:31? The Verse in Focus Psalm 119:31: “I cling to Your testimonies, O LORD; do not let me be put to shame.” The Hebrew Word Behind “Cling” • Hebrew: דָּבַק (dābaq) • Core idea: to stick, cleave, adhere as skin to bone or as glue to wood • It conveys an inseparable attachment—nothing casual or occasional How Scripture Uses דָּבַק • Genesis 2:24 – “a man will leave… and be joined to his wife” (marriage bond) • Deuteronomy 10:20 – “You shall fear the LORD your God… and cling to Him” (exclusive loyalty) • Joshua 23:8 – “you shall cling to the LORD your God” (ongoing dependence) • Ruth 1:14 – “Ruth clung to her” (steadfast devotion) • Psalm 63:8 – “My soul clings to You” (fervent pursuit) Layers of Meaning in Psalm 119:31 • Whole-hearted attachment to God’s written testimonies • Refusal to loosen the grip even when culture, trial, or emotion pulls the other way • Willing surrender of personal reasoning to the authority of revealed truth • Persistent obedience flowing from affection, not merely duty • Expectant trust that the Lord guards from shame when His word is held fast Context Within Psalm 119 • Surrounding verses (vv. 30-32) show a deliberate life-choice: – v. 30 Choosing the way of faithfulness – v. 31 Clinging to testimonies – v. 32 Running in the path of commands • The writer moves from decision to devotion to delight; clinging is the hinge between choice and joyful action Practical Outworking Today • Immerse: keep Scripture continually before eyes, ears, and mind (Deuteronomy 6:6-9) • Memorize: store passages so truth “adheres” inside (Psalm 119:11) • Obey promptly: each command followed cements the bond (John 14:21) • Resist compromise: evaluate every influence by God’s testimonies (2 Timothy 3:16-17) • Depend in prayer: lean on God’s promises when pressure mounts (Psalm 119:50) Assurance Attached to Clinging • God shields from shame (Psalm 119:31) • He upholds the one who clings (Psalm 63:8) • He grants prosperity and longevity of faithfulness (Joshua 23:11-13) Summary Snapshot To “cling” in Psalm 119:31 is to fasten oneself to God’s word with unwavering loyalty, daily obedience, and trusting dependence, confident that the Lord honors such steadfast attachment. |
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