What is the meaning of Psalm 119:69?

Though the arrogant have smeared me with lies

• The psalmist literally reports that proud people have “smeared” him—spread false stories to stain his reputation (see Psalm 109:2; Psalm 35:11).

• Their arrogance is rebellion against God, not just hostility toward the psalmist (Proverbs 21:24).

• Christ Himself endured similar slander when “false witnesses came forward” (Matthew 26:59-60), confirming that God’s servants can expect misrepresentation.

• Scripture assures us that the Lord hears every lie and will vindicate the righteous in His timing (Psalm 37:5-6; 1 Peter 2:23).

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I keep Your precepts with all my heart

• In the face of injustice, the psalmist’s response is not retaliation but deeper obedience—he clings to God’s commands (Psalm 119:51-52).

• “With all my heart” signals undivided devotion, echoing earlier lines: “Blessed are those who seek Him with all their heart” (Psalm 119:2).

• Such wholehearted loyalty is expected of every believer: “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments” (John 14:15; cf. James 1:22).

• Obedience becomes a testimony; integrity under fire exposes the emptiness of the slander (Philippians 2:15).

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summary

The verse contrasts two realities: arrogant people fabricate lies, yet the servant of God answers with steadfast, wholehearted obedience. Scripture assures that slander cannot overturn truth, and wholehearted faithfulness remains the surest path to vindication and honor before God.