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.
Aleph’s tribute begins with beatitudes: “Blessed are the undefiled in the way, who walk in the law of the Lord! Blessed are those who keep His testimonies, who seek Him with the whole heart! They also do no iniquity; they walk in His ways” (vv. 1-3).
This is followed by an emphatic statement of God’s expectation of obedience and the writer’s fervent desire to live accordingly. “You have commanded us to keep Your precepts diligently. Oh, that my ways were directed to keep Your statutes!” (vv. 4-5).
Aleph’s tribute continues with the wonderful result that comes from obeying God’s Word. “Then I would not be ashamed when I look into all Your commandments” (v. 6).
The conclusion is a twofold resolution with an earnest petition. “I will praise You with uprightness of heart when I learn Your righteous judgments. I will keep Your statutes; oh, do not forsake me utterly” (vv. 7-8).
“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).
