Mike Singenstreu

Can you remember the last time God’s Word stopped you in your tracks?  Can you remember the last time you came away in awe of the simple yet profound truths of God’s love for us…His people? Of course, all of God’s word ought to cause us pause because if our eyes and heart are open… God through His Spirit… is always getting our attention.

Where can you go in the Bible to help overcome all the stress and hardship that we “always” seem to be under? (“Always”…is not true but… there are days and weeks that it “feels” that way, right?) Where does the Bible teach us about joyfulness, happiness in the Christian life? Psalm 119 is the largest place in the Scriptures that talk about this and it does while at the same time talking about hardship and affliction in the psalmist’s life.  Just like us!

It is amazing how quickly things can change in South Texas. I woke up this morning to a “Fire Alert” because of high winds and dry conditions in places, I suppose.  But it is amazing that even one really good spring downpour can move our yards from parched brown to lavish green. I can run my sprinkler endlessly, but there’s just something about the water that falls from the sky that brings restoration and revival like no other watery supply to the grass.

David begins today saying, “Your hands have made and fashioned me; give me understanding that I may learn your commandments.” David recognizes in the midst of troubles and affliction he is brought to remember that God “made and fashioned” him so he is God’s. And as such he also knows that God through His Holy Spirit gives Him understanding of God’s commandments…God’s revealed will. Since the first point is true, therefore the second one is as well.  This is stated to the congregation that he is addressing as hope and comfort in the midst of the affliction God brings into our lives. For he says, “Those who fear you shall see me and rejoice, because I have hoped in your word.” He knows God has placed him in such a public place so others can take hope from him as he takes hope in God and His Word.

Today all of us are dealing with something we didn’t anticipate. Whether that is houses that need to sell. Or physical illness that seems to just hang on. Or children rebelling for whatever reason.  Or maybe you “feel” that your job is tenuous at best. Whatever is going on today, this passage can speak clearly to you/us.

Psalm 119 is a constant reminder of God’s faithfulness to us through His Word…a faithfulness that we need to constantly be praising Him for. “You have dealt well with your servant, O LORD, according to your word.” This passage reminds us that we need to praise God for His grace to us…for even on our worst days we are treated better than we deserve.  God has kept His Word…His promise…His covenant and as such He works all things out “according to His Word”. Just a reminder, this phrase “according to your promise…your word”…is always a reference to the standard God uses and is to be the only standard we use for it is the only reliable source of faith and practice.

Now think about this a minute…who in their right mind would ever ask God a question based in such arrogance and ignorance? Your answer might be… unbelievers, and you would be right. Your answer might be… those who have just suffered a tremendous loss, and you would be right. Your answer might be… immature Christians and you would be right. But WE must also answer quite simply…ME/US, as well, if we are going to be completely truthful.  However, it is easier to deflect this to others rather than thinking of ourselves and how we ask this question often with our actions.

Psalm 119:57-64 reveals David’s unwavering devotion to God. He declares, “The LORD is my portion; I promise to keep your words,” expressing complete reliance on God. This passage explores how David’s commitment to God’s Word fuels his desire for grace, repentance, and fellowship with other believers. Discover how, like David, you can find God as your portion, turn from sin, and experience the steadfast love that fills the earth. Learn to pray with expectation and live a life of obedience and praise.

Find hope and comfort in God’s Word amidst life’s afflictions. Psalm 119:49-56 reminds us of the power of God’s promises. Like David, we can find solace in Scripture, even during difficult times. This post explores how knowing God’s Word, like Jesus demonstrated to the Sadducees (Mark 12:18-27), brings hope and life. Discover how God’s statutes can be your songs, sustaining you through hardship and pointing you toward your heavenly home. Learn how keeping God’s precepts brings blessing and allows us to glorify Him during our earthly sojourn. Find your hope renewed today.

“Let your steadfast love come to me, O LORD, your salvation according to your promise; then shall I have an answer for him who taunts me, for I trust in your word. And take not the word of truth utterly out of my mouth, for my hope is in your rules. I will keep your