The Conclusion: Gospel

“I have gone astray like a lost sheep; seek your servant,
for I do not forget your commandments.” Psalm 119.176

This is it—the conclusion of this amazing psalm. For 175 verses, the poet has extolled the virtues of God’s Word. He has sung the praise of Scripture. He has long meditated on the truth of God. And, what is his conclusion?

He recognizes his sin. God’s Word has revealed to him that he has wandered. He is a sinner. Scripture has also revealed to him the path of salvation, so he calls to God to save him—to seek him and bring him back into the fold. The psalmist has discovered that God’s commandments are right, and he longs for the Lord to deliver him so that he can obey.

The conclusion of this epic poem on God’s Word is the gospel. We all have strayed. When we study God’s Word, we ought first realize that God is holy and we are not. This should drive us to cry out to the Lord, who alone can deliver us from sin and enable us to pursue righteousness.

When you study God’s Word, does it humble you or puff you up? What are the ways that you have strayed from God’s holy standards? Have you called upon him for salvation, to seek you and save you? How does your life display redemption, a faithful pursuit of righteousness?

Gracious God, we have all wandered like sheep, all chased after sin. Have mercy on us, O Lord, and save us. Lead us in the way of your Word, that our lives may sing of your grace. Amen.

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