Psalms 119:115

Psalms 119:115 (KJV) presents a powerful declaration of resolve and commitment from the Psalmist, emphasizing the inseparable link between one's chosen companions and one's walk of faith.

Context

Psalm 119 is the longest chapter in the Bible, a magnificent acrostic poem dedicated entirely to the beauty, wisdom, and importance of God's Word, law, statutes, and precepts. Each section of eight verses begins with a successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet. Within this extensive meditation on divine instruction, verse 115 stands as a bold statement of the practical outworking of a heart devoted to God's commands. It follows verses that speak of seeking God with the whole heart (Psalm 119:10) and meditating on His precepts (Psalm 119:15), setting the stage for a life lived in active obedience.

Key Themes

• Separation from Unrighteousness: The direct command, "Depart from me, ye evildoers," signifies a deliberate choice to distance oneself from those whose lives are characterized by sin and disobedience to God. This isn't merely a physical separation but a spiritual and moral one, reflecting a commitment to purity.
• Unwavering Commitment to God's Law: The Psalmist's motivation for separation is clear: "for I will keep the commandments of my God." This highlights that true devotion to God necessitates a break from influences that would hinder obedience. The desire to honor God's Word is the driving force behind the boundary setting.
• Sanctification and Purity: The verse speaks to the ongoing process of sanctification, where a believer is set apart for God's purposes. By rejecting "evildoers," the Psalmist actively pursues a life of holiness, free from corrupting influences that could defile his commitment to God's perfect law.

Linguistic Insights

The term "evildoers" in Hebrew is po'alei aven (פֹּעֲלֵי אָוֶן), literally "workers of iniquity" or "doers of mischief." This emphasizes that their characteristic is not just passive wrongdoing, but active engagement in unrighteousness. The Psalmist's declaration is against those who actively practice wickedness. "Commandments" (מִצְוֹת - mitzvot) refers to divine precepts given for guidance and instruction, highlighting God's authoritative and beneficial directions for life.

Practical Application

Psalms 119:115 offers a timeless principle for believers today. It calls for:

• Discernment in Relationships: While we are called to love all people, this verse encourages careful consideration of our closest associations. Relationships that consistently pull us away from God's standards or encourage sinful behavior should be reevaluated. This aligns with the New Testament call to "come out from among them, and be ye separate" (2 Corinthians 6:17).
• Prioritizing Obedience: The verse underscores that our commitment to God's Word must be paramount. Our desire to "keep the commandments of my God" should be the ultimate factor in our choices, even when it means making difficult decisions about our environment or company. As Jesus taught, "If ye love me, keep my commandments" (John 14:15).
• Moral Courage: It takes courage to stand firm against popular opinion or peer pressure. The Psalmist's bold declaration is a model for believers to assert their dedication to righteousness, even when it means being distinct from the world around them.

Ultimately, this verse is a reminder that a life devoted to God's Word will naturally lead to a separation from that which opposes Him, enabling us to walk in greater purity and purpose.