Psalms 119:24

¶ Thy testimonies also [are] my delight [and] my counsellors.

Thy testimonies {H5713} also are my delight {H8191} and my counsellors {H582}{H6098}.

Also your instructions are my delight; they are my counselors.

Your testimonies are indeed my delight; they are my counselors.

Thy testimonies also are my delight Andmy counsellors. ד DALETH.

Commentary

Psalm 119:24 highlights the psalmist's profound reverence and affection for God's divine instructions, portraying them not as burdensome rules but as sources of immense joy and trusted guidance.

Context

Psalm 119 is the longest chapter in the Bible, an acrostic poem structured around 22 stanzas, each beginning with a letter of the Hebrew alphabet. Throughout the psalm, the author expresses an unwavering devotion to God's law, statutes, commandments, precepts, decrees, and testimonies. These various terms collectively refer to God's revealed will and word. The psalm is a continuous meditation on the beauty, wisdom, and life-giving power of divine instruction, emphasizing obedience from a heart of love rather than obligation.

Key Themes

  • Divine Delight: The verse reveals that God's testimonies are a source of genuine pleasure and happiness for the psalmist. This isn't a grudging acceptance but a joyful embrace of God's truth. It speaks to a heart that finds satisfaction and fulfillment in God's ways, echoing the sentiment of Psalm 1:2, which describes the blessed person whose "delight is in the law of the LORD."
  • Infallible Guidance: Beyond mere delight, God's testimonies serve as "counsellors." In a world full of conflicting advice and uncertain paths, the psalmist turns to God's word for reliable direction and wisdom. This implies that God's truth provides clear moral, ethical, and practical guidance for life's decisions, functioning as a trusted advisor. This concept is further explored in verses like Psalm 32:8, where God promises to instruct and teach.
  • Personal Relationship with God's Word: The use of "my delight" and "my counsellors" signifies a deeply personal and intimate relationship with God's word. It's not abstract doctrine but a living, active source of comfort, joy, and direction for the individual.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "testimonies" (‘edot) refers to God's solemn declarations or divine decrees, often carrying the weight of a covenant or a witness. It highlights the unchanging, reliable nature of God's revealed will. The term "delight" (sha‘ashu‘im) conveys a strong sense of joy, pleasure, and even playful enjoyment, suggesting an intimate and cherished bond. "Counsellors" (‘etsah) implies advice, counsel, or purpose, emphasizing the practical, guiding role of God's word in decision-making and navigating life's complexities.

Practical Application

For believers today, Psalm 119:24 offers a profound model for engaging with Scripture. It encourages us to:

  • Cultivate Joy in God's Word: Rather than viewing Bible study as a chore, seek to find genuine delight and satisfaction in understanding God's character and will. This comes from a heart that truly loves God.
  • Seek Divine Counsel: In every decision, big or small, turn to the Bible for wisdom and guidance. God's word provides the ultimate framework for living a life that honors Him and leads to true flourishing. It serves as a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path.
  • Develop a Personal Relationship with Scripture: Engage with the Bible regularly, allowing its truths to shape your thoughts, desires, and actions. Let it be your trusted advisor and your greatest source of spiritual joy.
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Cross-References

  • Psalms 119:92 (9 votes)

    ¶ Unless thy law [had been] my delights, I should then have perished in mine affliction.

  • 2 Timothy 3:15 (8 votes)

    And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.

  • 2 Timothy 3:17 (8 votes)

    That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.

  • Colossians 3:16 (8 votes)

    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 119:16 (7 votes)

    I will delight myself in thy statutes: I will not forget thy word.

  • Joshua 1:8 (6 votes)

    This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.

  • Psalms 19:11 (5 votes)

    Moreover by them is thy servant warned: [and] in keeping of them [there is] great reward.