“Behold, I long for your precepts;
in your righteousness give me life!” Psalm 119.40
This verse marks the end of the fifth stanza of this extraordinary psalm. This section is filled with expressions of the writer’s dependence on the Lord. He culminates this prayerful section by extolling the life-giving power of God.
May we never let familiarity with this truth keep us from admiring the profundity of it. God is the giver of life. He is the creator. We would not take our next breath apart from him giving it to us. In him—and in him alone—is life. The psalmist clearly recognizes that. He also recognizes the connection of that truth with the benefits of aligning his life with God’s Word, thus he longs for the precepts of God.
Peter extols this same truth, noting that God has given us all that we need for life and godliness through the knowledge of him (2 Pet. 1.3). There is no other inerrant source for the knowledge of God than in his Word. We must long for Scripture, for it contains the word of life.
How does your daily life reflect a longing for the precepts of God? Have you recognized that God is the source of life and rejoiced in that truth? How do your prayers demonstrate your dependence on God for protection, teaching, understanding, aligning your affections, for your very life?
Great giver of Life, we are wholly dependent upon you. Teach us and guide us, O Lord. Cause us to love and long for your precepts, for your truth. Cause us to rejoice in your revelation, to study and adore you. Amen.