Throughout this study of Psalm 119, we have learned that the author highly regarded God's Word. He held it dear to his heart and repeatedly declared his belief in, and faithfulness to scripture. Verses 153–160 are no different. These two verses specifically express the writer's feelings for God’s Word.
159 Consider how I love your precepts! Give me life according to your steadfast love. 160 The sum of your word is truth, and every one of your righteous rules endures forever. We see the phrase "Give me life" mentioned three times in this stanza. I was tempted to consider these words as only an acknowledgement that God is the giver of life and breath. But I realized that I needed to take time to meditate, ponder, and ask God if there was something more for me. Remember, when something is repeated, God is saying, "this is important, pay attention." I reviewed the meaning of this phrase in commentaries, and I learned that "Give me life" can encompass many things; revive, restore, nourish, repair, preserve, and enliven are some translations. So how do I want or need God to do these things in me? How does He want to change me, and "Give me life" in 2020? You may have already noticed that there are seasons of life. Some of the significant changes happen between childhood and teenage years. Then we become young adults. Some aspects of these "seasonal" changes happen gradually, like the fall leaves changing colour. Some changes seem to happen overnight. God has blessed me through many beautiful seasons of life. He led me to a Christian Academy for grade 12 in a different state, and then on to Bible College in another country. Graduation, marriage and parenthood followed close behind. These were all seasons that brought joys, struggles and growth. Life seemed to settle into a predictable flow for several years. And then, when I turned fifty, the world opened up. While some women, about that age, were saying they had paid their dues and were stepping back from ministry, God was beginning to open doors for me that I could not have imagined. Now, over twenty years later, I ask the Lord to "Give me Life." Renew my spirit within me. "Open my eyes so that I can see the wonderful things in Your Word" Psalm 119:18. The Lord is answering those prayers. He is still presenting me with opportunities to serve Him. They may be much different from the ministry He had for me at thirty, forty and fifty, but meaningful all the same. While researching for a book that I am writing, God led me to scripture in Joshua chapter thirteen. In that chapter, we read that God called Joshua an old man. However, God did not tell Joshua it was time to retire. God told Joshua there was still much to accomplish. It doesn't seem God is finished with me yet, and He will always have ministry for me to do. Are you willing to join me in this prayer; “Lord, repair me, nourish me, restore me. I am willing, and I want to be ready to serve you well. "Give me Life" so that I am prepared to influence others for Christ as I come to the end of 2020 and then onward whatever you have in store for me in 2021.” "May the peace of God, that surpasses all understanding, keep your heart and mind in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4: 7
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