How does Psalm 119:56 encourage us to cultivate a habit of godliness? Setting the Verse in Context Psalm 119 celebrates God’s law as the believer’s delight and guide. Verse 56 sits within a stanza (vv. 49-56) focused on comfort in affliction. The psalmist’s anchor is unwavering obedience to God’s precepts, and he sums it up: “This is my practice, for I obey Your precepts.” (Psalm 119:56) Key Phrase: “My Practice” • The Hebrew idea behind “practice” (ḥeleq) speaks of a regular portion, allotment, or habit—something that belongs to you because you keep choosing it. • Godliness isn’t accidental; it is the repeated decision to obey God’s word until obedience defines who you are. • By calling obedience “my practice,” the psalmist testifies that godliness has become his settled lifestyle, not an occasional burst of zeal. Cultivating a Godly Habit Today 1. Personal ownership – Like the psalmist, claim obedience as “mine,” not merely a church program or family tradition. 2. Daily repetition – Habits form through consistent choices. Begin the day in Scripture; end it examining where you lived it out (Joshua 1:8). 3. Immediate response – Treat every biblical command as a present-tense directive. Delayed obedience breeds forgetfulness (James 1:22-25). 4. Whole-life integration – Let God’s precepts shape thoughts, words, spending, entertainment, relationships—everything (Colossians 3:17). 5. Joyful expectation – The psalmist does not see obedience as drudgery but as his inheritance. Expect blessing and stability when God’s ways define your routine (Psalm 1:1-3). Scriptures That Reinforce the Call • Deuteronomy 6:6-7—“These words I command you today are to be upon your hearts. And you shall teach them diligently to your children…” • 1 Timothy 4:7-8—“Train yourself for godliness. For physical exercise is of limited value, but godliness is valuable in every way…” • 2 Peter 1:5-7—Add to your faith goodness, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness, love. • Luke 6:46-48—The wise builder “comes to Me, hears My words, and puts them into practice.” Practical Takeaways • Schedule Scripture before screens. • Memorize one verse each week; recite it in prayer and conversation. • Pair every Bible reading with one specific act of obedience that day. • Track God’s faithfulness in a journal; review often to strengthen resolve. • Surround yourself with believers whose “practice” spurs you on (Hebrews 10:24-25). Psalm 119:56 assures us that a life habitually aligned with God’s precepts becomes a treasured possession—one that comforts in trials, steadies in temptation, and displays the beauty of a godly life to a watching world. |
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