TRV
Study This Verse
Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Psalms 119:35–36. His two-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
He had before prayed to God to enlighten his understanding, that he might know his duty, and not mistake concerning it; here he prays to God to bow his will, and quicken the active powers of his soul, that he might do his duty; for it is God that works in us both to will and to do, as well as to understand, what is good, Phi 2:13. Both the good head and the good heart are from the good grace of God, and both are necessary to every good work. Observe here,
I.The grace he prays for.
1.That God would make him able to do his duty: "Make me to go; strengthen me for every good work." Since we are not sufficient of ourselves, our dependence must be upon the grace of God, for from him all our sufficiency is. God puts his Spirit within us, and so causes us to walk in his statutes (Eze 36:27), and this is that which David here begs.
2.That God would make him willing to do it, and would, by his grace, subdue the aversion he naturally had to it: "Incline my heart to thy testimonies, to those things which thy testimonies prescribe; not only make me willing to do my duty, as that which I must do and therefore am concerned to make the best of, but make me desirous to do my duty as that which is agreeable to the new nature and really advantageous to me." Duty is then done with delight when the heart is inclined to it: it is God's grace that inclines us, and the more backward we find ourselves to it the more earnest we must be for that grace.
II.The sin he prays against, and that is covetousness:
"Incline my heart to keep thy testimonies, and restrain and mortify the inclination there is in me to covetousness." That is a sin which stands opposed to all God's testimonies; for the love of money is such a sin as is the root of much sin, of all sin. Those therefore that would have the love of God rooted in them must get the love of the world rooted out of them; for the friendship of the world is enmity with God. See in what way God deals with men, not by compulsion, but he draws with the cords of a man, working in them an inclination to that which is good and an aversion to that which is evil.
III.His plea to enforce this prayer:
"Lord, bring me to, and keep me in, the way of thy commandments, for therein do I delight; and therefore I pray thus earnestly for grace to walk in that way. Thou hast wrought in me this delight in the way of thy commandments; wilt thou not work in me an ability to walk in them, and so crown thy own work?"
Historical interpretation
Historical Reception
One surviving comment on this verse from the historical church.
But since he has no power to do even this, save he be aided by Him who commands him to do what He commands, "Make me," he adds, "to go in the path of Your commandments, for therein is my desire" [Psalm 119:35]. My desire is powerless, unless You Yourself makest me to go where I desire. And this is surely the very path, that is, the path of God's commandments, which he had already said that he had run, when his heart was enlarged by the Lord. And this he calls a "path," because "the way is narrow which leads unto life;" [Matthew 7:14] and since it is narrow, we cannot run therein save with a heart enlarged....
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Summary
Psalms 119:35 is a profound prayer from the psalmist, expressing a deep yearning for divine guidance and enablement to walk in the path of God's commandments, not as a burdensome duty, but as the very source of his delight. It encapsulates the core theme of Psalm 119: that God's law is not merely a set of rules, but a gracious revelation of His will, leading to true joy, freedom, and flourishing for those who embrace it wholeheartedly.
Context
Literary Context
Psalm 119 is the longest psalm and the longest chapter in the Bible, an elaborate acrostic poem structured around the 22 letters of the Hebrew alphabet, with eight verses dedicated to each letter. It is a sustained meditation on the beauty, perfection, and life-giving power of God's Word, referred to by numerous synonyms such as "commandments," "statutes," "precepts," "judgments," "laws," and "testimonies." Verse 35 falls within the "Daleth" section (verses 25-32), where the psalmist has just expressed his soul cleaving to the dust, praying for revival according to God's word, as seen in Psalms 119:25. He has also prayed for understanding and strength to pursue God's ways, confessing his reliance on divine instruction and enablement, as articulated in Psalms 119:27-30. Thus, verse 35 is a natural progression, moving from a general desire for revival and understanding to a specific, active plea for God's direct guidance in the practical outworking of obedience, rooted in a deep affection for God's directives. It transitions from internal longing to a request for external enablement to live out that longing.
Historical & Cultural Context
The concept of "walking in a path" or "way" (Hebrew: derek) was a pervasive metaphor in ancient Israelite thought, representing one's entire course of life, conduct, and destiny. Unlike the legal codes of surrounding nations, which often served primarily to maintain social order or appease deities, the Torah (God's Law) given to Israel through Moses was presented as a covenantal gift from a loving God to His chosen people, as described in Deuteronomy 4:5-8. It was intended to set them apart, guide them into a life of blessing, and foster a unique relationship with Yahweh. Obedience was not merely external compliance but an expression of loyalty and love for the covenant Lord. The psalmist, living within this covenant framework, understood that true flourishing and delight were found not in rebellion or self-determination, but in aligning one's life with the divine wisdom embedded in God's commandments, which were seen as a source of life, light, and truth, as celebrated in Psalms 19:7-11.
Key Themes
This verse powerfully contributes to several key themes prevalent throughout Psalm 119 and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights Divine Guidance and Enablement, recognizing human weakness and the absolute necessity of God's active intervention to lead and empower the believer to walk righteously. The psalmist does not presume self-sufficiency but humbly asks God to "make me to go," emphasizing reliance on divine power and grace. Secondly, it underscores the profound truth of Joy in Obedience. Contrary to a common misconception that God's commands are burdensome, the psalmist declares that his delight is in them. This reveals that true pleasure and satisfaction are found in aligning one's will with God's, transforming duty into desire. This theme is echoed throughout the wisdom literature, such as in Proverbs 3:13-18, which describes wisdom's ways as pleasant and her paths as peace. Finally, the verse speaks to Volitional Surrender and Active Pursuit. While seeking divine enablement, the psalmist also expresses a personal, heartfelt will to embrace God's path. The delight is not forced but arises from a heart that genuinely loves and values God's instructions, demonstrating a willing submission to His perfect will.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
From the primitive root H1869 (dârak), meaning "to tread, to walk, to lead, to direct." In the Hiphil stem (causative), the verb here means "cause me to walk" or "lead me." This emphasizes God's active role as the guide and enabler, highlighting the psalmist's dependence on divine power and direction to navigate life's path according to God's will. It is a prayer for both clear direction and the strength to follow it.
This word (H5410, nâthîyb) refers to a well-trodden way, an established course, or a defined route. It suggests a clear, discernible way of life that God has laid out, in contrast to wandering aimlessly. The "path of thy commandments" is not a vague concept but a specific, revealed way of living that reflects God's character and purposes, a journey already marked out by divine wisdom.
From the primitive root H2654 (châphêts), which properly means "to incline to" and by implication, "to be pleased with, to desire." This is a strong word conveying deep, abiding pleasure, satisfaction, and a genuine inclination of the heart, not merely a fleeting emotion or a reluctant acceptance. It signifies an inner joy and contentment found in the very act of obedience, arising from a profound appreciation for God's will.
Verse Breakdown
"Make me to go in the path of thy commandments"
This opening clause is a fervent prayer for divine intervention and enablement. The psalmist acknowledges his own inability to consistently and perfectly walk in God's ways without God's active leading and empowerment. It's a recognition of both human frailty and the absolute need for supernatural grace. The "path of thy commandments" signifies a life lived in accordance with God's revealed will—a life of moral integrity, spiritual wisdom, and covenant faithfulness. It is a plea for God to direct his steps, to illuminate the way, and to provide the strength necessary to follow it, indicating that true obedience is a divinely enabled journey.
"for therein do I delight"
This second clause provides the profound motivation and reason for the prayer. The psalmist's desire to walk in God's commandments is not born out of fear, obligation, or a sense of duty alone, but out of a deep, intrinsic pleasure and joy found within the commandments themselves. This "delight" is a spiritual affection, a profound satisfaction that comes from aligning one's will with the divine will. It suggests that obedience is not a burden to be endured, but a privilege to be embraced, a source of true fulfillment and spiritual flourishing, transforming duty into a joyful pursuit.
Literary Devices
Psalms 119:35 employs several literary devices that enhance its meaning and emotional impact. The most prominent is Prayer, as the entire verse is framed as a direct address and petition to God. This highlights the psalmist's personal relationship with the divine and his humble reliance on God's active involvement in his life. The phrase "the path of thy commandments" is a powerful Metaphor, depicting God's laws not as static rules but as a dynamic, living "way" or course of life to be walked. This metaphor evokes imagery of guidance, journey, and destination, emphasizing that obedience is a progressive journey rather than a single act. Furthermore, the verse exhibits a form of Causal Parallelism, where the second clause provides the reason or motivation for the first: "Make me to go... for therein do I delight." This structure underscores the deep, internal connection between the desire for guidance and the joy found in obedience, revealing a heart that truly loves God's ways and finds its deepest satisfaction in them.
Theological and Thematic Connections
This verse beautifully articulates the paradox of divine sovereignty and human responsibility, where the psalmist prays for God to enable his obedience, yet simultaneously expresses his personal delight in that very obedience. It reveals that true spiritual freedom is found not in autonomy from God's law, but in a willing submission to it, empowered by divine grace. The commandments are not restrictive chains but liberating pathways that lead to life and joy, reflecting God's good and perfect will for humanity. This perspective transforms obedience from a legalistic burden into a joyous pursuit, a participation in the very character and wisdom of God.
Reflection and Application
Psalms 119:35 offers a profound model for the believer's prayer life and a transformative perspective on obedience. It challenges the common misconception that God's commands are burdensome or detract from personal freedom, instead inviting us to cultivate a heart that genuinely delights in God's Word, recognizing that His ways are always for our ultimate good and deepest joy. This verse encourages us to actively seek God's guidance in every aspect of our lives, acknowledging our human limitations and relying on His divine enablement. It reminds us that true spiritual flourishing is found not in pursuing our own desires, but in aligning our will with the perfect will of God, a process that is both empowered by His grace and experienced with profound delight. When we pray "Make me to go," we are not asking for a forced march, but for a joyful journey on the path that leads to life, freedom, and intimacy with our Creator.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Does "Make me to go" imply a lack of free will or that God forces obedience?
No, "Make me to go" (Hebrew: hadrikheni) is a prayer for divine guidance and enablement, not coercion. It acknowledges human weakness and the need for God's active leading to walk righteously, but it does not negate human responsibility or free will. The psalmist's subsequent declaration, "for therein do I delight," reveals a heart that willingly desires to follow God's path. It's a prayer for God to empower the psalmist to do what his heart already desires, to overcome obstacles, and to stay on the path. This aligns with the biblical understanding that God works in believers "both to will and to do of his good pleasure," as stated in Philippians 2:13, illustrating a partnership between divine grace and human cooperation.
How can I delight in God's commandments if they sometimes feel restrictive or difficult?
The delight described in Psalms 119:35 is not necessarily an immediate emotional high, but a deep, abiding satisfaction that comes from recognizing the wisdom, goodness, and life-giving nature of God's ways. It's a spiritual delight that often grows as we experience the blessings and peace that come from obedience, even when the initial steps are challenging. It requires a shift in perspective, viewing God's commands not as arbitrary rules, but as expressions of His love and design for our flourishing, much like a good parent's instructions are for a child's well-being. Cultivating this delight involves meditating on God's Word, as encouraged in Psalms 1:2, praying for understanding and a willing heart, and trusting that God's path, though sometimes narrow, ultimately leads to true freedom and joy, as Jesus taught in Matthew 7:13-14.
Is this verse only about following rules, or is there a deeper meaning?
While the verse speaks of "commandments," it's far more than just "following rules." The "path of thy commandments" refers to a holistic way of life that reflects God's character and will. It encompasses moral conduct, spiritual devotion, ethical living, and a heart attitude of love and reverence for God. The "delight" is not in mere legalistic adherence, but in the intimate relationship with God that obedience fosters. It's about finding joy in aligning one's entire being with the Creator's design, experiencing the peace and flourishing that comes from living in harmony with divine wisdom. This deeper meaning points to a relational obedience, where the commands are expressions of God's covenant love and an invitation to deeper fellowship and abundant life.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Psalms 119:35 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. He is the one who perfectly walked "in the path of thy commandments," not needing to pray "Make me to go," because His very nature was perfectly aligned with the Father's will. Jesus declared, "My food is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work," as recorded in John 4:34, demonstrating a perfect and unwavering delight in His Father's commands, even to the point of death on the cross, as described in Philippians 2:8. He is the embodiment of God's wisdom and the living Word, the "way, the truth, and the life," as He Himself proclaimed in John 14:6. For believers, this verse is fulfilled as we are united with Christ. Through His atoning work, the penalty for our disobedience is paid, and through His Spirit, we are empowered to walk in newness of life. The Holy Spirit indwells us, writing God's laws on our hearts and enabling us to both desire and perform God's good pleasure, fulfilling the promise of the new covenant in Jeremiah 31:33 and the Spirit's work in Romans 8:3-4. Thus, the psalmist's prayer becomes our own, answered by God's grace through Christ, allowing us to genuinely delight in the path of His commandments.