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Psalms 119:37
Verse
Context
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Summary
Commentary
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Turn away mine eyes--literally, "Make my eyes to pass, not noticing evil." vanity--literally, "falsehood;" all other objects of trust than God; idols, human power, &c. (Psa 31:6; Psa 40:4; Psa 60:11; Psa 62:9). quicken . . . in thy way--make me with living energy to pursue the way marked out by Thee. Revive me from the death of spiritual helplessness (Psa 119:17, Psa 119:25, Psa 119:40, Psa 119:50; Psa 116:3).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Turn away my reproach which I fear,.... Either for the sake of religion, which was disagreeable to him; and he might be afraid it would be too heavy for him to bear, and be a temptation to him to forsake the good ways of God: or rather by reason of sin, which brings a reproach on good men; and causes the enemy to speak reproachfully, and is therefore dreaded by them who desire to be kept from sin, for that reason as well as others; see Psa 39:8. Jarchi and Kimchi think that David has some reference to his sins, in the case of Uriah and Bathsheba; lest they should be a perpetual reproach on his name and family, which he greatly feared; for thy judgments are good; the laws of God, and punishment of sin according to them; the Scriptures, and the doctrines contained in them; the ways of God, and true religion; which are evil spoken of, through the sins of the professors of them.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
Here, 1. David prays for restraining grace, that he might be prevented and kept back from that which would hinder him in the way of his duty: Turn away my eyes from beholding vanity. The honours, pleasures, and profits of the world are the vanities, the aspect and prospect of which draw multitudes away from the paths of religion and godliness. The eye, when fastened on these, infects the heart with the love of them, and so it is alienated from God and divine things; and therefore, as we ought to make a covenant with our eyes, and lay a charge upon them, that they shall not wander after, much less fix upon, that which is dangerous (Job 31:1), so we ought to pray that God by his providence would keep vanity out of our sight and that by his grace he would keep us from being enamoured with the sight of it. 2. He prays for constraining grace, that he might not only be kept from every thing that would obstruct his progress heaven-ward, but might have that grace which was necessary to forward him in that progress: "Quicken thou me in thy way; quicken me to redeem time, to improve opportunity, to press forward, and to do every duty with liveliness and fervency of spirit." Beholding vanity deadens us and slackens our pace; a traveller that stands gazing upon every object that presents itself to his view will not rid ground; but, if our eyes be kept from that which would divert us, our hearts will be kept to that which will excite us.
Psalms 119:37
Your Word Is a Lamp to My Feet
36Turn my heart to Your testimonies and not to covetous gain. 37Turn my eyes away from worthless things; revive me with Your word. 38Establish Your word to Your servant, to produce reverence for You.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Deadly Look
By Jim Cymbala6.7K39:07PridePSA 119:37PRO 4:25MAT 6:33MAT 14:30HEB 12:2In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the power of the eye gate and how easily it can be manipulated in today's technologically advanced world. He highlights the three spiritual atmospheres that the world consists of: the desires of sinful man, the lust of the eyes, and the boasting of material possessions. The preacher warns against the seductiveness of the advertising industry and its ability to deceive through visual stimuli. He uses the example of David's downfall, starting with just a look at Bathsheba, to illustrate the destructive consequences of giving in to lustful desires. The sermon concludes with a call to turn away from worthless things and fix one's gaze on God's word.
Getting Used to the Dark (Alternate)
By Vance Havner4.0K26:10ApostasyPSA 119:37MAT 6:33MAT 11:28ROM 12:91TH 5:81TH 5:11In this sermon, the speaker discusses the destructive trends in society, particularly in the behavior of children. He emphasizes the importance of self-assertiveness and discipline in raising children. The speaker also criticizes the commercialization and performance-oriented nature of modern Christianity, calling for a return to the true essence of the faith. He shares his personal realization that he needs to be more focused and impactful in his preaching, as he recognizes the weight of the message he delivers to people between life and death. The sermon concludes with a reminder to hate evil but not evil people, and a reflection on the speaker's own mortality and the desire to make the most of the time he has left to preach the truth of God's word.
Personal Holiness - Part 1
By William MacDonald1.9K39:33HolinessGEN 39:121SA 3:1PSA 101:3PSA 119:9PSA 119:37PRO 4:23MAT 5:29In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of taking resolute action and exercising strict control over certain aspects of our lives. He specifically mentions the need to control television and movies, as they can be associated with sin and lower our spiritual temperature. The speaker references Bible verses such as Psalm 101:3 and 1 Samuel 3:1 to support his argument. He also shares personal experiences of being raised in a home where movies were prohibited and highlights the story of Joseph as an example of taking decisive action to resist temptation.
What Do People Need From Their Pastors Today?
By John Piper1.2K02:39PSA 119:37ROM 12:2PHP 4:8JAS 4:71JN 2:15This sermon emphasizes the importance of spreading a passion for the centrality and supremacy of God into people's lives, highlighting the negative influences of consumerism, materialism, and sexual content in mainstream media. The speaker reflects on the impact of media on thoughts and purity, urging the audience to focus on God's purity and presence amidst worldly distractions.
Living for Generations to Come
By Scott Volk1.2K1:03:30Next GenerationPSA 119:37PRO 13:22MAT 6:33HEB 12:14In this sermon, the speaker reflects on his failure to address certain topics during his recent services. He shares his personal challenges and confesses that he will change his behavior in the future. The speaker also discusses the importance of not being deceived by temporary pleasures and urges young people to live according to God's principles from an early age. He emphasizes the need to think generationally and make choices that will impact eternity. The sermon concludes with a powerful message about living in light of eternity and finding true fulfillment in the present moment.
Responding to Mercy
By Jason Neil80255:33PSA 101:3PSA 119:371PE 2:16REV 15:3In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the greatness and marvelous works of the Lord, as mentioned in Revelation 15:3-4. The sermon then focuses on the proper response to God's goodness, highlighting the importance of worshiping and fearing Him. The preacher references Jeremiah 7:1-4 to highlight the need for reform and righteousness in the house of the Lord. The sermon concludes with a reminder from Romans 12, urging believers to present themselves as living sacrifices to God and live as servants of Him. The sermon emphasizes the need to reflect God's goodness in our lives and avoid engaging in immoral or worthless activities.
No Room for Vanity and Pride
By Joshua Daniel67753:22PSA 39:5PSA 119:37PRO 30:8DAN 4:34This sermon emphasizes the fleeting nature of human achievements and the vanity of worldly success, drawing from Psalms 39 and the story of King Nebuchadnezzar. It highlights the importance of humility, righteousness, and mercy, urging listeners to turn away from vanity and lies, and to seek God's ways. The message warns against pride and the pursuit of material wealth, calling for a return to God's truth and judgment.
Temptations for Men and Victory
By Edgar Reich60442:10JOB 31:1PSA 119:37LUK 4:13JHN 14:26ROM 13:141CO 10:131TH 4:3JAS 4:71PE 2:91JN 4:41JN 5:4REV 12:11This sermon focuses on the concept of being a royal priesthood and a chosen generation, discussing temptations, victories, and the need for surrender to God. It emphasizes the role of the Holy Spirit and Christ living within believers to help overcome sin and challenges, particularly in areas like addictions, relationships, and temptations. The importance of faith, obedience to God's Word, and seeking higher help through Christ and the Holy Spirit is highlighted as essential for victory over sin and temptations.
Lest I Should Be a Castaway
By Keith Daniel5341:15:42PSA 1:1PSA 119:37ECC 10:1MAT 25:23ROM 12:11CO 9:25EPH 4:141TI 1:192TI 1:13TIT 2:7HEB 12:15This sermon emphasizes the importance of surrendering to God and the need for protection against spiritual attacks. It warns against distractions and diversions that can lead to a fall, urging listeners to dedicate themselves fully to God and His Word. The speaker highlights the dangers of moral and doctrinal shipwrecks, urging vigilance and a return to sound doctrine and spiritual grounding.
That Is All They Have to Enjoy
By C.H. Spurgeon0Spiritual FocusThe Dangers of VanityPSA 119:37PRO 30:8ECC 1:2MAT 6:19ROM 12:22CO 4:18PHP 3:19COL 3:2JAS 4:41JN 2:15C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes that true comfort for Christians cannot be found in worldly pleasures, which he refers to as vanity. He acknowledges that while ungodly individuals may seek happiness in earthly delights, Christians are called to seek joy in a higher, spiritual realm. Spurgeon illustrates this with the story of a godly wife who, recognizing her husband's spiritual state, strives to make his earthly life as pleasant as possible. He warns that indulging in vain amusements can lead to spiritual starvation and vulnerability to temptation. The sermon concludes with a heartfelt plea for divine assistance to turn away from vanity and lies.
On Dissipation
By John Wesley0Focus on GodDissipationPSA 119:37LUK 10:391CO 7:35HEB 12:1John Wesley addresses the pervasive issue of dissipation in society, emphasizing that it originates in the heart before manifesting in outward behavior. He explains that true dissipation is the uncentering of the soul from God, leading to a distracted life filled with worldly pursuits. Wesley encourages believers to maintain their focus on God through faith and love, warning against the distractions that can scatter their thoughts and desires. He asserts that a life centered on God is essential for spiritual rest and fulfillment, and he calls for a return to simplicity and purity in our intentions. Ultimately, Wesley reminds his audience that while dissipation is rampant, there remains a faithful remnant who strive to attend upon the Lord without distraction.
A Discriminating Ministry
By J.C. Philpot02SA 6:22JOB 40:4PSA 119:37PRO 23:23JER 15:19JHN 8:32JHN 14:62TI 2:211PE 1:72PE 2:22J.C. Philpot preaches about the prophet Jeremiah's rough path and rebellious nature, highlighting the distinction between precious and vile elements in God's sight. He emphasizes the importance of discerning and separating the precious from the vile in characters, doctrines, experiences, and practices. Philpot explains how precious characters, doctrines, experiences, and practices are valued by God, while vile ones are rejected. He urges the congregation to return to God and truth, emphasizing the need to stand firm in faithfulness and not compromise for the sake of pleasing others.
His Wives Turned Away His Heart.
By F.B. Meyer0Influence of RelationshipsSpiritual Vigilance1KI 11:4NEH 13:26PSA 119:37PRO 13:20MAT 6:241CO 15:332CO 6:14GAL 5:7JAS 4:41JN 2:15F.B. Meyer warns that every individual has a vulnerable point in their character, as exemplified by Solomon, whose heart was turned away from God by his foreign wives. Despite his wisdom, Solomon succumbed to the worship of idols, illustrating the dangers of associating with those who do not share one's faith. Meyer emphasizes the importance of being cautious in love and relationships, as they can lead one away from God. He urges young people to be mindful of their companions, as they can influence one's spiritual trajectory. The sermon serves as a reminder to maintain vigilance and prayer in the face of worldly temptations.
The Excellence of a Free Mind, Gained Through Prayer Rather Than by Study
By Thomas a Kempis0PSA 119:37MAT 6:331CO 10:13GAL 5:161JN 2:15Thomas a Kempis preaches about the importance of maintaining a focused mind on heavenly things amidst the cares of life, avoiding disorderly affections for worldly pleasures. He prays for deliverance from the entanglements of earthly necessities, darkness of mind, and miseries that oppress the soul, seeking instead the liberty of spirit and love of the eternal. Kempis asks God to help resist carnal comforts, worldly temptations, and the deceitfulness of the devil, while seeking the courage, patience, and constancy to persevere in the love of God's name.
(Needed-Men of God) 2. a Holy Man of God
By Zac Poonen0Spiritual DisciplineHolinessJOS 7:102KI 4:8PSA 119:37ISA 29:13JER 15:19EZK 33:31EPH 4:24JAS 1:26JAS 3:2JAS 5:16Zac Poonen emphasizes the necessity of being holy men and women of God, as exemplified by Elisha, who was recognized as such by a discerning woman. He challenges the audience to reflect on the impression they leave on others, urging that mere eloquence or charisma is insufficient without genuine holiness. Poonen identifies guile, lack of discipline, and insufficient time spent with God as key barriers to achieving holiness. He asserts that true holiness is essential for effective ministry and revival, and that Christians must strive for a life that reflects God's holiness, regardless of personal ambition or recognition. Ultimately, he calls for a deep yearning for holiness that aligns with God's character, as this is crucial for impactful prayer and ministry.
The Christian in Complete Armour - Part 12
By William Gurnall0Spiritual WarfareFaithPSA 37:2PSA 119:37PRO 28:20ZEC 3:2ROM 6:14EPH 6:16HEB 11:29JAS 1:141JN 2:151JN 5:4William Gurnall emphasizes the necessity of faith as a shield for Christians to quench the fiery darts of the wicked, which represent the temptations and attacks from the enemy. He describes the nature of these enemies as wicked and united, and explains that faith not only helps resist these temptations but also extinguishes their harmful effects. Gurnall encourages believers to recognize the power of faith in overcoming both enticing and frightening temptations, asserting that true faith leads to victory over sin and the world. He urges Christians to engage in prayer and expect God's help, reinforcing that faith is essential for spiritual warfare.
Turn Away Mine Eyes From Beholding Vanity
By C.H. Spurgeon0VanitySpiritual AwakeningPSA 119:37MAT 6:19C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the various forms of vanity that distract us from a meaningful life, including worldly pleasures and the pursuit of wealth. He warns that even seemingly respectable pursuits can be vain if they do not center on Christ and God. Spurgeon highlights the need for divine intervention to awaken our spirits, as human efforts alone are insufficient to inspire true zeal and devotion. He encourages believers to earnestly pray for God to quicken their hearts and turn their eyes away from vanity, recognizing the urgency of living a life focused on eternal values. This prayer, 'Quicken Thou me in Thy way,' is presented as essential for every believer's daily walk.
He Is Dull, Heavy, Lumpy—all but Dead
By C.H. Spurgeon0VanitySpiritual AwakeningPSA 119:37MAT 6:19C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the dangers of vanity in our lives, illustrating that both worldly pleasures and the pursuit of wealth can lead us away from God. He highlights the need for divine intervention to awaken our spirits, as mere thoughts of hell, heaven, or even Christ's love may not be enough to stir us from our spiritual lethargy. The Psalmist's plea to 'turn away my eyes from beholding vanity' and 'quicken me in Your way' serves as a powerful reminder of our dependence on God for spiritual vitality. Spurgeon encourages believers to unite their body and soul in fervent prayer, seeking God's help to overcome dullness and embrace a life focused on Him. This prayer is deemed essential for every day, urging us to seek God's presence actively.
1 John 2:16
By John Gill0Worldly DesiresSpiritual FulfillmentPSA 119:37ECC 1:8ECC 2:1ECC 4:8MAT 5:28MAT 23:61JN 2:16John Gill emphasizes the dangers of worldly desires as outlined in 1 John 2:16, warning against the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life. He explains that these desires lead to sin and ultimately to destruction, highlighting that they are not from God but from the world. Gill urges believers to recognize the emptiness of these pursuits and to avoid loving the world, as true fulfillment comes from God alone. He stresses that the things of this world are vain and should not capture the hearts of the faithful.
The Two Eyes
By W.R. Inge0PSA 119:37MAT 6:24ROM 8:62CO 4:18COL 3:2W.R. Inge delves into the concept of the soul of Christ having two eyes, a right eye fixed on eternity and the Godhead, and a left eye focused on creation and the differences among creatures. The inner man of Christ, according to the right eye of His soul, experienced perfect blessedness and eternal peace, while the outer man endured suffering and tribulations. Inge explains how the outer man of Christ remained undisturbed by the suffering, reflecting on Jesus' unwavering joy and blessedness even during His crucifixion. He draws parallels between the soul of Christ and the created soul of man, emphasizing the need to focus on either eternity or temporal matters, as both cannot be prioritized simultaneously.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Turn away mine eyes--literally, "Make my eyes to pass, not noticing evil." vanity--literally, "falsehood;" all other objects of trust than God; idols, human power, &c. (Psa 31:6; Psa 40:4; Psa 60:11; Psa 62:9). quicken . . . in thy way--make me with living energy to pursue the way marked out by Thee. Revive me from the death of spiritual helplessness (Psa 119:17, Psa 119:25, Psa 119:40, Psa 119:50; Psa 116:3).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Turn away my reproach which I fear,.... Either for the sake of religion, which was disagreeable to him; and he might be afraid it would be too heavy for him to bear, and be a temptation to him to forsake the good ways of God: or rather by reason of sin, which brings a reproach on good men; and causes the enemy to speak reproachfully, and is therefore dreaded by them who desire to be kept from sin, for that reason as well as others; see Psa 39:8. Jarchi and Kimchi think that David has some reference to his sins, in the case of Uriah and Bathsheba; lest they should be a perpetual reproach on his name and family, which he greatly feared; for thy judgments are good; the laws of God, and punishment of sin according to them; the Scriptures, and the doctrines contained in them; the ways of God, and true religion; which are evil spoken of, through the sins of the professors of them.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
Here, 1. David prays for restraining grace, that he might be prevented and kept back from that which would hinder him in the way of his duty: Turn away my eyes from beholding vanity. The honours, pleasures, and profits of the world are the vanities, the aspect and prospect of which draw multitudes away from the paths of religion and godliness. The eye, when fastened on these, infects the heart with the love of them, and so it is alienated from God and divine things; and therefore, as we ought to make a covenant with our eyes, and lay a charge upon them, that they shall not wander after, much less fix upon, that which is dangerous (Job 31:1), so we ought to pray that God by his providence would keep vanity out of our sight and that by his grace he would keep us from being enamoured with the sight of it. 2. He prays for constraining grace, that he might not only be kept from every thing that would obstruct his progress heaven-ward, but might have that grace which was necessary to forward him in that progress: "Quicken thou me in thy way; quicken me to redeem time, to improve opportunity, to press forward, and to do every duty with liveliness and fervency of spirit." Beholding vanity deadens us and slackens our pace; a traveller that stands gazing upon every object that presents itself to his view will not rid ground; but, if our eyes be kept from that which would divert us, our hearts will be kept to that which will excite us.