I am your servant; give me understanding. – Psalm 119:125
Three times in the span of four verses David identifies himself as a servant of the Most High God. He asks for God’s protection and he asks God to show him His mercy (steadfast love). Lastly, he asks, again as God’s servant, that he be given understanding so he can know God’s testimonies (Psalm 119:122-125).
This may seem a bit out of order. A teacher will usually give his student information and then expects the student to work at understanding it. But God’s order is reversed. He will give understanding first. Think about this: a servant who knows his Master’s heart will be able to follow the Master’s instructions more completely and in total obedience. ,
To know God results in an intelligent faith that will understand Him as He reveals Himself more and more to you. The more you know Him, the more understanding you will have as you learn His statutes, His commandments, and His testimonies. The gift of knowledge can bring a sense of vanity and self-centeredness, but knowing your Lord means you are completely dependent on Him.
C.H. Spurgeon writes that as God gives His divine instruction “the stores of knowledge will enrich your soul… Moreover, this gift of understanding acts also in the form of discernment… and thus the good man… knows what are and what are not the testimonies of the Lord.” He is preserved from what is false and dangerous.
It is good to be a servant of the Lord. Ask Him to give you the understanding only the Master can give. Then pray for those in leadership positions in this nation, that they would come to God for protection, mercy, and understanding.
Today’s Verse: Psalm 119:125
I am your servant; give me understanding,
that I may know your testimonies!
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Recommended for further reading: Psalm 119:121-128
I have done what is just and right;
do not leave me to my oppressors.
122 Give your servant a pledge of good;
let not the insolent oppress me.
123 My eyes long for your salvation
and for the fulfillment of your righteous promise.
124 Deal with your servant according to your steadfast love,
and teach me your statutes.
125 I am your servant; give me understanding,
that I may know your testimonies!
126 It is time for the Lord to act,
for your law has been broken.
127 Therefore I love your commandments
above gold, above fine gold.
128 Therefore I consider all your precepts to be right;
I hate every false way.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
