What is the meaning of Psalm 119:70? Their hearts The psalmist first turns our attention to “their hearts,” focusing on the inner life of those who oppose God’s ways. Scripture repeatedly teaches that every outward act flows from the heart (Proverbs 4:23; Matthew 12:34–35). When the heart is set against the Lord, external rebellion naturally follows (Romans 1:21). are hard and callous A “hard and callous” heart is unresponsive to God, much like Pharaoh’s in Exodus 7–11. • It refuses conviction (Acts 7:51). • It lacks compassion (1 John 3:17). • It remains unmoved by truth (Ephesians 4:18–19). The psalmist is experiencing pressure from such people (Psalm 119:69), yet he accurately diagnoses the root problem: spiritual numbness. Hebrews 3:13 warns that sin “hardens” when left unchecked, showing this condition is the result of repeated resistance to God’s voice. but I delight In striking contrast, the writer chooses joy. Where the opposition is cold, he is warm toward God. Delight is an active, affectionate pleasure (Psalm 37:4). • It is not forced duty but eager embrace (Psalm 40:8). • It is sustained even under affliction (Psalm 119:92). This delight fuels perseverance; when hearts around him grow dull, his heart grows more alive. in Your law The “law” (torah) is God’s revealed instruction. The psalmist treasures it because: • It is trustworthy and pure (Psalm 19:7–9). • It gives wisdom beyond his enemies (Psalm 119:98). • It leads to true freedom (James 1:25). By anchoring his joy here, he avoids the spiritual sclerosis that plagues his adversaries. Instead of allowing hostility to shape him, he lets God’s Word rejuvenate him daily (Psalm 1:2–3). summary Psalm 119:70 contrasts two heart conditions: hardened rebels versus a worshiper who finds pleasure in God’s Word. The verse calls us to recognize the danger of a callous heart and to cultivate a lifestyle of delight in Scripture, trusting that God’s living Word keeps us tender, wise, and steadfast, whatever opposition may arise. |
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