What is the meaning of Psalm 119:79? May those who fear You - The psalmist speaks first about a specific group: “those who fear You.” Scripture consistently portrays the fear of the LORD as reverent awe that leads to obedience (Proverbs 1:7: “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge”). - Psalm 25:14 tells us, “The LORD confides in those who fear Him,” showing that a respectful, obedient heart enjoys special closeness with God. - By invoking this group, the writer aligns himself with people who are already serious about honoring God (Psalm 31:19; Malachi 3:16). Turn to me - The request is not for personal popularity but for mutually edifying fellowship. Psalm 119:63 affirms, “I am a companion of all who fear You, and of those who keep Your precepts.” - When believers turn toward one another, they strengthen each other’s walk (Hebrews 10:24–25, “Let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds”). - Bullet points of what “turn to me” accomplishes: • Encouragement in trials (2 Corinthians 1:3–4) • Accountability to stay faithful (Galatians 6:1) • Shared wisdom drawn from God’s Word (Proverbs 27:17) Those who know Your testimonies - The third clause narrows the description further. These God-fearers are also people who “know” God’s testimonies—His revealed words, works, and statutes (Psalm 19:7–8, “The testimony of the LORD is trustworthy, making wise the simple”). - Knowing in Scripture is relational and experiential (John 17:3). It moves beyond information to wholehearted allegiance (James 1:22). - Cross references that illustrate this depth of knowledge: • Deuteronomy 6:6, “These words I command you today are to be upon your hearts.” • John 14:21, “Whoever has My commandments and keeps them is the one who loves Me.” • 1 John 2:3, “By this we can be sure that we have come to know Him: if we keep His commandments.” summary Psalm 119:79 reveals the psalmist’s longing for fellowship with a distinct community—believers who both revere God and actively live out His Word. He prays that such people will “turn to” him, forming bonds that encourage faithfulness and mutual growth. In practical terms, the verse urges us to seek companionship with those who fear God and cherish His testimonies, so that together we may walk in steadfast obedience and deeper intimacy with the Lord. |
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