As pressure and stress bear down on me, I find joy in your commands. [Psalm 119.143]
Those who love your instructions have great peace and do not stumble. [Psalm 119.165]
Psalm 119 is a wealth of instruction and meditative thoughts about the Bible Itself and God's Word.
First, how many times when we get in difficult situations do we actually find joy in God's Law? Do we not rather become reactive instead of responsive following our natural inclinations until such time as the trouble is passed? Is it not our tendency to focus on the problem instead of God's Law in the midst of a problem? I know mine is.
Oh, I try to stay true to what I know is right, but the Psalmist here (Psalm 119.143) is speaking of something different - something higher, if you will - something that almost seems perpendicular to the matter at hand. The Psalmist is teaching us that in the midst of trials we should be reminded that we are enlisted in His Kingdom rather than our own. Consequently he is instructing that our trials have no bearing whatsoever on His Laws and His Kingdom! Therefore, our focus (and subsequent joy) should remain in God's instructions - God's commands - God's Word ...IF in fact we are enlisted in His Kingdom!
Psalm 119.165 further addresses this same circumstance in declaring that God's Word gives great peace and that those who adhere to it do not stumble. And what more than pressure and stress would cause one to stumble?
So, when life's stress level is elevated, it is the proper time to focus on God's Word and not on the cause of the stress!
Pity those who have no foundation in the Word. What hope do they have of finding joy in it in the midst of trouble?
Father, help me today to genuinely learn this life principle from Your Word! Help me to find joy in Your commands in spite of trials and tribulations!
