Psalm 119 - 6.4.25

Scripture

Psalm 119:87

They almost wiped me from the earth,
    but I have not forsaken your precepts.

Observation

In this section of Psalm 119, David cries out to God asking for help. He lays his problems before God and says, “How long must I wait?” He uses strong language to describe his adversity – my soul faints, my eyes fail (while waiting), when will you punish my persecutors, they almost wiped me from the earth. But he also says, “… but I have not forsaken your precepts.” In other words, he will not let his circumstances impact his obedience. 

Application

When we encounter adversity, we have a choice – we can cling to God’s promises and grow closer to him, or we can use it as an excuse and fall away.

We can learn lessons from this psalm to help us in times of adversity:

Vs 81 – I have put my hope in your word

Spend time in prayer. Meditate on his word. Put your hope in God.

Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Vs. 88 – In your unfailing love, preserve my life, that I may obey the statues of your mouth

Depend on the grace of God to strengthen you. Cling to him.

Isaiah 41:10 So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Vs. 89 – your faithfulness continues through all generations

Know that he is faithful and keeps his promises.

Vs. 92 - If your law had not been my delight, I would have perished

Remember the times that God has been with you and worked for and through you in the past.

Prayer

Thank you God that you are in control of all things. Thank you that you have a plan. Help me to remember to cling to you and draw strength from you in the hard times. You are waiting for me with open arms.

- Debbie Dunn