The exquisite uniqueness of Psalm 119 is that its composer uses each successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet to sing an octave of praise to God’s Word. The fourteenth letter is Nun.
Its tribute begins with one of the Psalter’s more picturesque metaphors—”Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (v. 105).
The earnestness of the composer’s commitment to God is expressed in verse 106—”I have sworn and confirmed that I will keep Your righteous judgments.” And, as is always the case when there is a genuine commitment to God, evil responds with opposition. “I am afflicted very much; revive me, O Lord, according to Your word…My life is continually in my hand, yet I do not forget Your law. The wicked have laid a snare for me, yet I have not strayed from Your precepts” (vv. 107, 109-110).
The petitions of verse 108 are noteworthy. “Accept, I pray, the freewill offerings of my mouth, O Lord, and teach me Your judgments.”
Nun’s tribute concludes with the composer’s enduring commitment to hearing and heeding God’s will. “Your testimonies I have taken as a heritage forever, for they are the rejoicing of my heart. I have inclined my heart to perform Your statutes forever, to the very end” (vv. 111-112).
“So now, brethren, I commend you to God and to the word of His grace, which is able to build you up and give you an inheritance among all those who are sanctified” (Acts 20:32).
