Psalms 119:11

¶ Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.

Thy word {H565} have I hid {H6845} in mine heart {H3820}, that I might not sin {H2398} against thee.

I treasure your word in my heart, so that I won't sin against you.

I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against You.

Thy word have I laid up in my heart, That I might not sin against thee.

Psalms 119:11 (KJV) declares, "Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee." This verse is a profound statement about the intentional internalization of God's truth as a primary defense against sin and a pathway to righteous living.

Context

Psalm 119 is the longest chapter in the Bible, an extensive acrostic poem dedicated entirely to extolling the virtues, power, and necessity of God's law, statutes, precepts, and word. The psalmist, often identified with David, expresses an unwavering love and devotion to divine instruction. Within this grand tapestry of praise for God's revelation, verse 11 stands out as a personal declaration of commitment. It emphasizes that engaging with God's word is not merely an academic exercise but a deeply personal, transformative act meant to guide one's entire being.

Key Themes

  • Internalization of Scripture: The phrase "Thy word have I hid in mine heart" speaks to more than just casual reading or even memorization. It implies a deep assimilation and treasuring of God's commands and promises within one's innermost being. This internal storage makes the word readily accessible for guidance and counsel.
  • Protection from Sin: The explicit purpose given for hiding the word is "that I might not sin against thee." God's word serves as a powerful deterrent and guide, illuminating the path of righteousness and exposing the deceptive nature of sin. It equips believers to stand firm against temptation and make choices that honor God.
  • Obedience and Holiness: Ultimately, the verse points to a life of obedience and holiness. By allowing God's word to dwell richly within, the psalmist seeks to align his will and actions with God's perfect will, leading to a life characterized by integrity and devotion.
  • Divine Authority: The possessive "Thy word" underscores the psalmist's recognition that these are not mere human precepts but divine revelation, carrying the authority and wisdom of the Almighty.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "hid" is tsaphan (צָפַן), which means to store up, treasure, or conceal for safekeeping. It suggests a deliberate and careful act of preserving something precious. The word for "heart" is lev (לֵב), which in biblical Hebrew refers to the totality of a person's inner being—their mind, will, emotions, and moral conscience. Therefore, to "hide God's word in one's heart" means to embed it deeply within one's intellect, desires, and decision-making processes, making it an integral part of who they are.

Related Scriptures

The concept of internalizing God's word for righteous living is a recurring theme throughout Scripture:

  • Deuteronomy 6:6 instructs the Israelites to keep God's words in their hearts.
  • Joshua 1:8 encourages meditation on the law day and night for prosperity and success.
  • Proverbs 4:23 advises guarding one's heart, for from it flow the springs of life.
  • Jesus Himself taught that His words have a cleansing effect (John 15:3) and are essential for spiritual life (John 6:63).
  • The New Testament also emphasizes the power of God's word as the "sword of the Spirit" (Ephesians 6:17) and describes it as living and active, discerning thoughts and intentions (Hebrews 4:12).

Practical Application

Psalms 119:11 offers timeless wisdom for believers today. To "hide God's word in one's heart" means to:

  • Regularly Read and Study: Engage with the Bible consistently, seeking to understand its teachings.
  • Memorize Scripture: Commit verses to memory so they can be recalled during times of temptation, doubt, or need.
  • Meditate on Truth: Ponder and reflect on God's word, allowing it to shape your thoughts, attitudes, and desires.
  • Apply it to Life: Consciously seek to live out the principles and commands found in Scripture, allowing it to guide your decisions and actions.

By actively internalizing God's word, believers are equipped to resist the allure of sin, pursue holiness, and live a life that truly honors their Creator, finding strength and guidance in every circumstance.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Psalms 37:31

    The law of his God [is] in his heart; none of his steps shall slide.

  • Colossians 3:16

    Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.

  • Psalms 40:8

    I delight to do thy will, O my God: yea, thy law [is] within my heart.

  • Jeremiah 15:16

    Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart: for I am called by thy name, O LORD God of hosts.

  • Psalms 1:2

    But his delight [is] in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.

  • Job 22:22

    Receive, I pray thee, the law from his mouth, and lay up his words in thine heart.

  • Proverbs 2:10

    ¶ When wisdom entereth into thine heart, and knowledge is pleasant unto thy soul;
← Back