“Seven times a day I praise you
for your righteous rules.” Psalm 119.164
This verse contains unnatural praise. Indeed, it displays supernatural praise. The frequency of the poet’s praise may not surprise us. He offers his praise seven times a day. While we may be inspired by that, we’re not surprised by it. Surely God is worth infinite praise.
What does surprise is the reason for his frequent praise. The psalmist praises God for his righteous rules. This is the shocking part. For, since Adam and Eve, man’s natural inclination is to rebel against the righteous rules of God.
We easily recognize how we should praise God for his providence, praise God for healing us from disease, praise God for blessing us with salvation. But, to praise God for his rules is shocking. Still, we must learn to do this. God’s righteous rules are a guide and guard for our life. Rather than rebel against them—rather than see them as harsh and restrictive—we should rejoice in them. They are a blessing from God.
Do you rejoice in the commandments of God? How often do you praise God for giving rules to guide and guard your life? Let us learn from the psalmist. Let us rejoice in the righteous rules of God.
Heavenly Father, we love you. You are righteous. Every one of your words is true. Teach us to love your law, O Lord. Teach us to rejoice in your righteous rules, that we might live for the glory of your great name. Amen.