Psalms 119:152

Verse Psalms 119:152. Concerning thy testimonies, I have known of old] קדם ידעתי kedem yedati, "Long ago I have known concerning thy testimonies." Thou hast designed that thy testimonies should bear reference to, and evidence of, those glorious things which thou hast provided for the salvation of men; and that this should be an everlasting testimony. They continue, and Christ is come.

ANALYSIS OF LETTER KOPH. - Nineteenth Division

I. The psalmist is earnest in his prayers for deliverance.

II. He shows the end for which he desires it.

III. The necessity of its being speedy, as his enemies were at hand.

I. 1. His prayer was earnest; it was a cry, rather than a petition.

2. It was sincere: "I cried with my whole heart." There was no hypocrisy in it.

3. It was in season: "I prevented the dawning of the morning."

4. It was out of season: "Mine eyes prevent the night-watches."

What he prayed for, -

1. Audience: "Hear me, O Lord."

2. Deliverance: "Save me."

3. Increase of grace: "Quicken me."

II. The end for which he prayed.

1. That he might keep God's statutes.

2. That he might keep his testimonies. See the explanation of these words at the beginning of this Psalm.

3. That he might meditate on God's word.

4. That he might increase in the life of God.

The arguments he uses: -

1. His faith and hope. I cried, because I waited and hoped in thy word.

2. God's mercy. According to thy loving-kindness.

3. The danger he was in from his pursuing enemies. - 1. They draw nigh. 2. They are mischievously bent. 3. They are most impious men. Far from the law of God; they despised and hated it.

III. Near as they may be to destroy, thou art nearer to save.

1. "Thou art near:" They cannot come where thou art not.

2. "All thy commandments are truth:" And thou hast commanded us to trust in thee; and therefore we shall not fear evil. Thou wilt support thy servants, and destroy thine enemies.

He concludes with an acclamation: -

1. "Concerning thy testimonies:" Thy will, which thou hast testified in thy word.

2. "I have known of old:" Ever since I looked into them, began to study and practice them.

3. "That thou hast founded them for ever:" They are of eternal truth, immutable and indispensable. And this is the anchor of our souls, that we may not be carried away by trials and temptations. Not one tittle of God's truth has ever failed any of his sincere followers. No one promise of his that has been sought by faith in Christ has ever been unfulfilled. Blessed be God!