Category Archives: bible

Psalm 119: He 33-40

Here we have a prayer for conviction. The psalmist cries out for God to build a desire and sense of divine necessity. The initial mention here of teaching uses a Hebrew word that paints a picture of pouring out something, … Continue reading

Posted in bible | Tagged , , | 1 Comment

Psalm 119: Daleth 25-32

In this octet is the Way of Strength, as the word for “road” is used repeatedly. The psalmist complains of a human frailty he finds all too obvious. The first line refers not to some kind of desire, but that … Continue reading

Posted in bible | Tagged , , | Comments Off on Psalm 119: Daleth 25-32

Psalm 119: Gimel 17-24

The psalmist rejoices in his past experiences that confirmed the revelation of God. As one who has experienced it aplenty in the past, he calls on God to deal with him in such a way that he can thrive and … Continue reading

Posted in bible | Tagged , , | Comments Off on Psalm 119: Gimel 17-24

Psalm 119: Beth 9-16

This is the Path of Purity. The Hebrew word translated “cleanse” approaches the concept of moral transparency. How does a younger fellow allow others to see God through his life? In every generation, the young seldom give it much thought, … Continue reading

Posted in bible | Tagged , , , | Comments Off on Psalm 119: Beth 9-16

Psalm 119: Aleph

Westerners get the impression the Hebrews weren’t too good at math, but that has more to do with a different attitude about when and where math matters. At 176 verses, this is the longest chapter in the Bible, and with … Continue reading

Posted in bible | Tagged , , , | Comments Off on Psalm 119: Aleph

Psalm 118

This is the final “Hallel Psalm” and we are altogether certain this is the one Jesus sang with His disciples on His way to the Garden of Gethsemane. It was originally composed as a processional and is plainly designed for … Continue reading

Posted in bible | Tagged , , | Comments Off on Psalm 118

Psalm 117

Some people find significance in the observation that this is the middle chapter in the entire Protestant canon, and also the shortest chapter. In a few manuscripts it is considered part of either the previous or succeeding psalms, but there … Continue reading

Posted in bible | Tagged , , | Comments Off on Psalm 117

Psalm 116

Still reviewing the “Hallel Psalms” used with Passover, this one is unique in the collection — it was originally composed as an intensely personal individual experience. However, it’s not hard to see how it calls on the nation to enter … Continue reading

Posted in bible | Tagged , , | Comments Off on Psalm 116

Psalm 115

This and the next three psalms were traditionally sung after the Passover meal. However, we also know such usage came somewhat later in the life of the nation. This hymn in particular was originally composed for general worship. It’s laid … Continue reading

Posted in bible | Tagged , | Comments Off on Psalm 115

Psalm 114

This is the second of the “Hallel Psalms” sung before the Passover meal. In Hebrew, this is the lyrical equivalent of a powerful appetizer — it is very small and simple, yet dense in satisfying flavor. These few brief words … Continue reading

Posted in bible | Tagged , , , | Comments Off on Psalm 114