Lisa DiG’s Reviews > Psalm 119: An Exposition > Status Update

This the wisest saints are only students in the Divine school.

You are good; and do good. Teach me your statues. Vs 68

Nothing is goodness in our eyes, that crosses our own inclination. We can hardly bear to hear of the cross, much less to take it up. We talk of goodness, but yield to discontent. We do not profess to dislike trial-only the trial now pressing upon us-any other cross than this; that is, my will and wisdom rather than God's. Is there not great need of this prayer

Thus the Lord can never be enjoyed, even by His own children-except as a portion- not only above all, but in the place of all. Other objects indeed may be subordinately loved: but of none but Himself must we say-"He is altogether lovely." "In all things He must have the preeminence"- …The moment that any rival is allowed to usurp the throne of the heart, we open the door to disappointment and unsatisfied desires.

True it is, that the corrupt and rebellious inclinations will "lust" to the end. But as long as indulgence is denied, conflict excited, and the constant endeavor maintained to "bring every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ," our liberty is established, even where it is not always enjoyed.

Heavenly, gracious Father! who and what are we, that our hearts should be made the unworthy recipients of Your grace? that our will should be subdued into "the obedience of faith?" and that we should be permitted to anticipate that blessed period, when we shall "keep Your law continually, forever and ever?" May this prospect realize the happiness of our present obedience!

Lord! seal-establish Your word to Your servant-devoted as I am-as I would be-to Your fear. If "the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom"-a "treasure"-a "strong confidence"-"a fountain of life"-how wise-how rich-how safe-how happy-is he who "is devoted to" it! "Blessed" indeed is he-with the favor of his God, the secret of His love, the teaching of His grace, and the mercy of His covenant.

Re: Psalm 119:38

“O Lord, put me  not to shame." Leave me not to myself, lest I become a shame to myself, and an offence to Your Church. "I will keep Your statutes. O forsake me not utterly." Dependence upon the Lord, in a deep sense of our weakness, is the principle of perseverance…He has promised-"My people shall never be ashamed;" and therefore, taking firm hold of His promise, you may "go on your way rejoicing."