¶ I [am] a companion of all [them] that fear thee, and of them that keep thy precepts.
I am a companion {H2270} of all them that fear {H3372} thee, and of them that keep {H8104} thy precepts {H6490}.
I am a friend of all who fear you, of those who observe your precepts.
I am a friend to all who fear You, and to those who keep Your precepts.
I am a companion of all them that fear thee, And of them that observe thy precepts.
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Psalms 101:6
Mine eyes [shall be] upon the faithful of the land, that they may dwell with me: he that walketh in a perfect way, he shall serve me. -
Proverbs 13:20
¶ He that walketh with wise [men] shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed. -
1 John 1:3
That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship [is] with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ. -
Malachi 3:16
Then they that feared the LORD spake often one to another: and the LORD hearkened, and heard [it], and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the LORD, and that thought upon his name. -
Malachi 3:18
Then shall ye return, and discern between the righteous and the wicked, between him that serveth God and him that serveth him not. -
Psalms 119:79
Let those that fear thee turn unto me, and those that have known thy testimonies. -
Psalms 16:3
[But] to the saints that [are] in the earth, and [to] the excellent, in whom [is] all my delight.
Psalms 119:63 expresses the psalmist's deep commitment to associating with those who share his reverence for God and dedication to His commands. It highlights the profound influence of companionship on one's spiritual journey.
Context
This verse is part of the extensive Psalm 119, the longest chapter in the Bible, which is an acrostic poem celebrating the beauty, wisdom, and necessity of God's law, statutes, precepts, and commandments. Throughout the psalm, the writer expresses his love for God's word and his desire to live in accordance with it. Verse 63, situated within the 'Samekh' section, reflects the psalmist's intentional choice of fellowship, emphasizing that his relationships are rooted in shared spiritual values rather than worldly pursuits.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The Hebrew word for "companion," chaver (חָבֵר), implies a close associate or friend, someone with whom one has fellowship. The term for "fear," yare (ירא), encompasses awe, reverence, and respect, rather than dread. "Precepts," piqqudim (פִּקּוּדִים), refers to divine appointments or specific instructions, emphasizing the detailed nature of God's commands.
Practical Application
This verse challenges believers today to consider the nature of their closest relationships. Do our companions encourage us in our faith, or do they draw us away? Cultivating godly fellowship is crucial for spiritual growth, accountability, and perseverance. It reminds us that our spiritual health is often reflected in the company we keep. By intentionally seeking out and nurturing relationships with those who genuinely reverence God and strive to obey His word, we strengthen our own walk of faith and contribute to a community that honors Him.