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Psalms 119:89
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- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
The eightfold Lamed. Eternal and imperishable in the constant verifying of itself is the vigorous and consolatory word of God, to which the poet will ever cling. It has heaven as its standing-place, and therefore it also has the qualities of heaven, and before all others, heaven-like stability. Ps 89 (Psa 89:3) uses similar language in reference to God's faithfulness, of which here Psa 119:90 says that it endureth into all generations. The earth hath He creatively set up, and it standeth, viz., as a practical proof and as a scene of His infinite, unchangeable faithfulness. Heaven and earth are not the subjects of Psa 119:91 (Hupfeld), for only the earth is previously mentioned; the reference to the heavens in Psa 119:89 is of a very different character. Hitzig and others see the subject in למשׁפּטיך: with respect to Thy judgments, they stand fast unto this day; but the עבדיך which follows requires another meaning to be assigned to עמדוּ: either of taking up one's place ready for service, or, since עמד למשׁפט is a current phrase in Num 35:12; Jos 20:6; Eze 44:24, of placing one's self ready to obey (Bttcher). The subject of עמדוּ, as the following הכּל shows, is meant to be thought of in the most general sense (cf. Job 38:14): all beings are God's servants (subjects), and have accordingly to be obedient and humble before His judicial decisions - היּום, "even to this day," the poet adds, for these judicial decisions are those which are formulated beforehand in the Tra. Joy in this ever sure, all-conditioning word has upheld the poet in his affliction, Psa 119:92. He who has been persecuted and cast down as it were to death, owes his reviving to it, Psa 119:93. From Him whose possession or property he is in faith and love he also further looks for his salvation, Psa 119:94. Let evil-doers lie in wait for him (קוּוּ in a hostile sense, as in Psa 56:7, קוּה, cf. חכּה, going back to קוה, Arab. qawiya, with the broad primary signification, to be tight, firm, strong) to destroy him, he meditates on God's testimonies. He knows from experience that all (earthly) perfection (תּכלה) has an end (inasmuch as, having reached its height, it changes into its opposite); God's commandment (singular as in Deu 11:22), on the contrary, is exceeding broad (cf. Job 11:9), unlimited in its duration and verification.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
LAMED. (Psa 119:89-96). In all changes God's Word remains firm (Pe1 1:25). Like the heavens, it continually attests God's unfailing power and unchanging care (Psa 89:2). is settled in--that is, stands as firmly as the heaven in which it dwells, and whence it emanated.
John Gill Bible Commentary
I will never forget thy precepts,.... Not the precepts of the moral law, though he carefully observed and attended to them, laid them up in his mind, and did not forget to keep them; but the doctrines of the word, of the word which the Lord commanded to a thousand generations; these he endeavoured to remember, and not let them slip from him, since it follows: for with them thou hast quickened me: not with the precepts of the moral law, which cannot give life, quicken a dead sinner, nor comfort a distressed saint it is the killing letter, and the ministration of condemnation and death: but the doctrines of the word, of the Gospel, which are spirit and life; the savour of life unto life, the means of quickening dead sinners, and of reviving drooping saints; of refreshing their spirits, and cheering their souls, when in distress: and when they are made thus useful, they are not easily forgotten, they leave impressions which do not soon wear off; and besides, saints are careful to remember such words and truths, which have been of use unto them, since they may have occasion for them again.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
Here, 1. The psalmist acknowledges the unchangeableness of the word of God and of all his counsels: "For ever, O Lord! thy word is settled. Thou art for ever thyself (so some read it); thou art the same, and with thee there is no variableness, and this is a proof of it. Thy word, by which the heavens were made, is settled there in the abiding products of it;" or the settling of God's word in heaven is opposed to the changes and revolutions that are here upon earth. All flesh is grass; but the word of the Lord endures for ever. It is settled in heaven, that is, in the secret counsel of God, which is hidden in himself and is far above out of our sight, and is immovable, as mountains of brass. And his revealed will is as firm as his secret will; as he will fulfil the thoughts of his heart, so no word of his shall fall to the ground; for it follows here, Thy faithfulness is unto all generations, that is, the promise is sure to every age of the church and it cannot be antiquated by lapse of time. The promises that look ever so far forward shall be performed in their season. 2. He produces, for proof of it, the constancy of the course of nature: Thou hast established the earth for ever and it abides; it is what it was at first made, and where it was at first placed, poised with its own weight, and notwithstanding the convulsions in its own bowels, the agitations of the sea that is interwoven with it, and the violent concussions of the atmosphere that surrounds it, it remains unmoved. "They" (the heavens and the earth and all the hosts of both) "continue to this day according to thy ordinances; they remain in the posts wherein thou hast set them; they fill up the place assigned them, and answer the purposes for which they were intended." The stability of the ordinances of the day and night, of heaven and earth, is produced to prove the perpetuity of God's covenant, Jer 31:35, Jer 31:36; Jer 33:20, Jer 33:21. It is by virtue of God's promise to Noah (Gen 8:22) that day and night, summer and winter, observe a steady course. "They have continued to this day, and shall still continue to the end of time, acting according to the ordinances which were at first given them; for all are thy servants; they do thy will, and set forth thy glory, and in both are thy servants." All the creatures are, in their places, and according to their capacities, serviceable to their Creator, and answer the ends of their creation; and shall man be the only rebel, the only revolter from his allegiance, and the only unprofitable burden of the earth.?
Tyndale Open Study Notes
119:89-96 Lamedh (ל): The stability of God’s wisdom gives understanding. God’s word provides order and a framework for living, even when under pressure from adversaries.
Psalms 119:89
Your Word Is a Lamp to My Feet
88Revive me according to Your loving devotion, that I may obey the testimony of Your mouth. 89Your word, O LORD, is everlasting; it is firmly fixed in the heavens. 90Your faithfulness continues through all generations; You established the earth, and it endures.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Meet Your Psychiatrist: He Puts Life Together
By Warren Wiersbe5.6K47:35PSA 119:89PSA 119:105MAT 4:4JHN 6:35ROM 12:12CO 3:18HEB 4:12In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of man as a trinity, drawing from Hebrews 4:12. He explains that just as the Old Testament priest cut the sacrifice into different parts, the word of God can separate between the soul and the spirit. The speaker uses the analogy of the tabernacle in the Old Testament, which had three parts: an outer court, a tent with two parts, and the Holy of Holies. He emphasizes that our will should be controlled by our mind and emotions, and that love is the greatest power for doing good. The speaker also highlights the importance of both Jesus Christ and the Bible in our lives, as they are interconnected and provide guidance and sustenance.
All Spiritual Blessings
By William MacDonald3.6K38:08Spiritual BlessingsDEU 7:13PSA 119:89MAT 6:33JHN 15:13EPH 1:32PE 1:3REV 22:19In this sermon, the speaker discusses the contrast between earthly material blessings and spiritual blessings in heavenly places. He refers to Deuteronomy chapter 7, where God promises to bless the nation of Israel if they obey Him. The speaker emphasizes the importance of being members of the body of Christ and shares a personal experience of encountering fellow believers. He also highlights the significance of having the word of God as a spiritual blessing and mentions that it will be a topic of conversation in heaven. The sermon concludes with a prayer expressing gratitude for the spiritual blessings received and a request for guidance and protection.
Collection of Prayers 1
By Leonard Ravenhill3.1K15:47Prayer MeetingPSA 119:89ISA 40:12MAT 6:33EPH 3:19PHP 4:42TI 3:162PE 1:16In this sermon, the preacher begins by praying for a powerful and transformative meeting. He asks God to ignite a fire of love, faith, hope, and zeal within the congregation. The preacher acknowledges the need for a greater understanding and experience of God's love and urges the listeners to have a holy hatred for sin. He references the apostle Paul's unwavering faith and joy in the midst of difficult circumstances and expresses a desire for the same level of faith and love in the present generation. The preacher also emphasizes the importance of the Holy Spirit's movement and intervention in bringing about spiritual transformation. He concludes by urging the congregation to not let anyone die in their sins and to be faithful in proclaiming the truth of God's Word.
Hope for the Godly in Death
By John Murray1.7K25:33DeathPSA 119:89ISA 61:3MAT 18:12ROM 8:392CO 12:9EPH 4:131TH 4:14In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of focusing our thoughts and hearts on the glorious event of Christ's manifestation in his matchless glory. He encourages the audience to measure the depth of their love, hope, and outreach by how much they gravitate towards this future event. The preacher assures the congregation that their departed loved ones, including husbands, fathers, and pastors, will be glorified with Christ at his glorious appearance. He addresses the concern of the Thessalonians about whether those who have died will experience the rapture and assures them that the last enemy to be destroyed is death. The final truth the preacher highlights is that the godly will always be with the Lord, being snatched up into the air to meet him.
Plan of Salvation - Election and Predestination (Eph. 1:3-14)
By John Murray1.7K51:27SalvationPSA 119:89EPH 1:4EPH 1:7EPH 1:9EPH 1:11EPH 1:13In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the concept of God's will and purpose in the lives of believers. He emphasizes how God combines terms to emphasize His will, using the example of being chosen in Christ and predestined. The preacher also discusses the idea of being conformed to the image of God's Son and the different interpretations of this passage. He concludes by highlighting the importance of understanding the logical relationship between election and predestination in God's saving plan.
The Place of the Word in the Home
By Paul Lloyd1.3K47:41Child TrainingJOS 1:8PSA 119:89MAT 6:332TI 3:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of training in the Word of God to prepare the way for the Lord. They encourage parents to have open discussions with their children about real-life issues and to use the Bible as a guide for teaching purity and diligence. The book of Proverbs is highlighted as a valuable resource for teaching these principles. The speaker also mentions the importance of incorporating Bible reading and listening to Bible tapes into daily routines.
(Guidelines) Interpretation Ii
By J. Vernon McGee1.2K13:47JOS 1:2PSA 19:4PSA 119:89PSA 119:160ISA 40:8ISA 55:11MAT 24:35In this sermon, the speaker discusses the topic of interpretation of the Bible. He begins by addressing the question of whether modern translations of the Bible can be trusted. He expresses his hesitation in recommending modern translations, emphasizing the importance of considering the overall purpose of the Bible and the intended audience of specific scriptures. The speaker concludes by highlighting the power and significance of the word of God, describing it as a source of peace, comfort, and guidance for all people.
Why Did God Make Us Like We Are - Part 2
By Bertha Smith1.1K1:02:14Nature Of ManGEN 6:5PSA 119:89MAT 6:33JAS 4:7In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of choosing between spending eternity in heaven or hell. He explains that Jesus is the only way to enter heaven and that God came in the flesh to provide salvation for humanity. The preacher highlights Jesus' purpose of giving his life as a ransom for many and offering eternal life to those who believe in him. The sermon also touches on God's plan to send his son into the world and the sinful nature of humanity, which originated from the devil.
The Light of the World
By Ian Paisley57250:47PSA 119:89MAT 28:19JHN 1:1HEB 13:131JN 1:1REV 21:21In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the certainty and clarity of God's message. He states that there is no room for doubt or debate when it comes to God's revealed and imparted message. The preacher highlights the importance of preaching the word of God as a means to address spiritual declension and weakness in the church. He emphasizes that the gospel is the salvation of souls and that no one has been saved without it. The central message of the sermon is that God is light, contrasting with fallen devils and men who are darkness, and there can be no union between the two.
The Sovereignty of God #1
By Ernest C. Reisinger8140:18SovereigntyPSA 93:1PSA 93:5PSA 119:89PSA 119:111In this sermon, the speaker discusses the symbolic meaning of floods, waters, and waves in relation to power. He emphasizes that these forces are opposite to the power of the Lord, who is mightier than any opposing force. The speaker presents two viewpoints on the voice of floods, one suggesting it represents the voice of nature, which is the voice of God. Regardless of the interpretation, the sermon emphasizes the sovereignty of God over things that humans cannot control. The speaker also references personal experiences and biblical verses to reinforce the belief in God's sovereignty.
Truth Can Not, Will Not Move
By Shane Idleman1703:22Unchanging TruthDivine GuidancePSA 119:89ISA 40:8MAL 3:6MAT 7:24JHN 14:6HEB 13:8Shane Idleman emphasizes the unchanging nature of truth, likening it to a lighthouse that steadfastly guides us, regardless of our attempts to alter it. He shares a powerful analogy of a battleship that arrogantly demands a lighthouse to change its course, only to be reminded that the lighthouse represents an unwavering truth that cannot be moved. Idleman warns against the pride and arrogance of humanity in trying to dictate terms to God, urging listeners to recognize the danger of ignoring divine guidance. The sermon serves as a reminder that God's truth stands firm, offering hope and direction amidst the chaos of changing societal norms.
Ezekiel 24:14
By Chuck Smith1Prophecy and FulfillmentThe Certainty of God's WordPSA 119:89ISA 40:8ISA 55:11JER 1:12EZK 24:14MAT 24:35ACT 4:12ROM 6:23HEB 6:182PE 1:21Chuck Smith emphasizes the certainty of God's Word, asserting that what God has spoken will undoubtedly come to pass. He highlights God's attributes of being all-knowing, absolute truth, and eternal, which necessitates our attention to His declarations. The sermon discusses the prophecy concerning Tyre, detailing how Nebuchadnezzar will conquer the city and its eventual desolation, serving as a reminder of the importance of heeding God's messages. Smith concludes by urging listeners to recognize the weight of God's words and the consequences of ignoring them.
The Knowledge of Salvation
By George Cutting0NUM 23:19PSA 119:89PSA 119:113JHN 6:47ROM 4:31JN 5:91JN 5:13George Cutting emphasizes the importance of knowing that believers have eternal life through faith in the Son of God, contrasting the uncertainty of man's feelings with the certainty of God's Word. He illustrates this with the story of the Passover in Egypt, showing how the sprinkled blood made the Israelites safe, but it was God's spoken word that made them sure of their salvation. Cutting stresses that true faith is not based on works or emotions, but solely on trusting in the trustworthy Person of Jesus Christ and relying on His finished work for eternal security.
1 Peter 1:25
By John Gill0Assurance in the GospelEternal Word of GodPSA 119:89ISA 40:8MAT 24:35MRK 13:31LUK 21:33JHN 1:1ROM 10:82TI 3:16HEB 4:121PE 1:25John Gill emphasizes the eternal nature of God's word, contrasting it with the fleeting nature of human life and the uncertainties of the world. He explains that while ministers and worldly things may fade away, the Gospel of Christ remains forever unchanged and is the same message preached by the apostles as foretold by Isaiah. This enduring truth provides hope and assurance to believers, affirming that the good news of salvation is steadfast and reliable.
Books Which Will Never Die
By J.C. Philpot0PSA 119:89PRO 30:5ISA 26:14ISA 40:8MAT 24:35JHN 1:12TI 3:16HEB 4:121PE 1:24REV 22:18J.C. Philpot discusses the enduring impact of certain books that contain the seeds of self-renewing life, contrasting them with the vast majority that fade into obscurity. He highlights the importance of books that appeal to the universal aspects of human nature, whether secular or spiritual, as they transcend time and remain imperishable. Philpot emphasizes the significance of the Bible, which stands the test of time against all attacks and remains as the eternal word of God, unlike the works of infidel writers that are destined for oblivion.
God Is Bound to His Word
By David Wilkerson0Boldness in PrayerGod's FaithfulnessJOS 21:451KI 8:562CH 20:32CH 20:6PSA 119:89ISA 55:11ROM 4:21HEB 10:232PE 3:9David Wilkerson emphasizes the concept of 'binding precedent' in prayer, illustrating how understanding God's past mercies can empower believers to pray boldly. He uses the example of King Jehoshaphat, who, in a time of crisis, reminded God of His promises and past actions, effectively binding God to His Word. This act of recalling God's faithfulness not only strengthened Jehoshaphat's faith but also led to divine intervention against Judah's enemies. Wilkerson encourages believers to approach God with the same confidence, knowing that His promises remain steadfast. Ultimately, he assures that God is bound to fulfill His Word in our lives.
The Amen
By C.H. Spurgeon0Promises Of GodComfort in ChristPSA 119:89ISA 42:3MAT 11:28JHN 10:11ROM 8:382CO 1:20HEB 13:8C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes that Jesus is the ultimate 'Amen,' affirming all His promises and providing comfort to the weary and broken-hearted. He reassures sinners that if they come to Christ, they will find His promises true, as He never retracts His words. Spurgeon highlights Jesus' roles as Priest, King, and Prophet, affirming that He remains steadfast in His commitments and support for His people. The sermon encourages believers to trust in the unchanging nature of Christ's promises, which stand firm through all circumstances. Ultimately, Jesus is portrayed as the source of hope, strength, and assurance in every aspect of life.
The Parable of the Householder
By G. Campbell Morgan0DiscipleshipKingdom Of GodPSA 119:89ISA 40:8MAT 13:52MAT 28:19LUK 12:42ROM 12:21CO 9:222TI 2:15HEB 13:8JAS 1:17G. Campbell Morgan emphasizes the significance of the Parable of the Householder, which encapsulates the responsibilities of disciples in the Kingdom of God during the current age. He explains that understanding Jesus' teachings is crucial for disciples to fulfill their roles as interpreters of God's law, akin to householders who generously share the treasures of truth. Morgan highlights the importance of bringing forth both 'things new and old,' indicating that while the principles of God's Kingdom are eternal, their applications must evolve to meet contemporary challenges. He warns against the misconception that the Church should adopt worldly methods, asserting that true success lies in correcting the spirit of the age through the timeless truths of the Kingdom. Ultimately, he calls for a return to the foundational teachings of God's sovereignty and grace, urging disciples to be faithful stewards of the truth.
Rev. 22:21. the Last Amen
By Horatius Bonar0Faith and AssuranceThe Power of PrayerPSA 119:89ISA 55:11JHN 14:6ROM 15:132CO 1:20PHP 4:41TH 5:16HEB 11:11PE 1:8REV 22:21Horatius Bonar emphasizes the profound significance of the word 'Amen' in prayer, illustrating its meanings from ignorance to faith. He explains that 'Amen' should be a declaration of truth, certainty, and faithfulness, reflecting our confidence in God's promises. Bonar categorizes the different ways 'Amen' can be uttered, urging believers to move from mechanical or indifferent responses to heartfelt affirmations of faith and hope. He encourages the congregation to let their 'Amens' resonate with joy and expectation, recognizing the power and love of God in their prayers. Ultimately, Bonar calls for a transformation in how we conclude our prayers, making 'Amen' a true expression of our faith and trust in God.
In Its History
By R.A. Torrey0Divine AuthorshipThe Indestructibility of the BiblePSA 19:7PSA 119:89ISA 40:8MAT 24:35JHN 1:1ROM 1:162TI 3:16HEB 4:121PE 1:252PE 1:21R.A. Torrey emphasizes the unique history of the Bible, noting that it has faced unparalleled hatred and animosity from all societal classes, yet it has also been deeply loved and cherished by countless individuals, leading many to sacrifice their lives for its truths. Despite centuries of attacks from various critics and powerful figures, the Bible has emerged victorious, proving its indestructibility and divine power. Torrey asserts that the Bible's authorship sets it apart from all other books, as it is the work of God, characterized by its inexhaustible depth, absolute accuracy, and universal adaptability, affirming its role as a divine guide for humanity.
Ezekiel 26:3
By Chuck Smith0ProphecyCertainty of God's WordNUM 23:19PSA 119:89ISA 55:11JER 29:11EZK 26:3JHN 3:16ROM 10:13HEB 6:182PE 1:20REV 20:15Chuck Smith delivers a powerful sermon on Ezekiel 26:3, emphasizing the prophecy against Tyre and its eventual downfall at the hands of multiple nations, starting with Nebuchadnezzar. He highlights the detailed predictions made by Ezekiel, which were fulfilled historically, showcasing the certainty of God's word. Smith reassures the congregation of God's promises regarding salvation and eternal life, while also warning of the consequences for those not found in the Book of Life. The sermon underscores the importance of recognizing the reliability of God's prophecies and the urgency of responding to His call for salvation.
Harmony
By T. Austin-Sparks0Harmony in ChristDivine OrderPSA 119:89MAT 6:10JHN 17:16ROM 8:291CO 14:33EPH 1:10PHP 2:15COL 1:201PE 2:9REV 5:9T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes that the Bible reveals God's nature as one of order, contrasting it with the chaos brought by Satan. He explains that Christ embodies divine order and that the church is called to manifest this order in the world. The ultimate goal is to restore harmony and glory through Christ, who reconciles all things to Himself, bringing heaven's order into our lives. Sparks encourages believers to recognize their role in this divine purpose and to seek conformity to Christ, the embodiment of heavenly order. The message highlights the importance of living under God's rule to eliminate discord in our lives and communities.
Joshua 23:14
By Chuck Smith0God's FaithfulnessThe Importance of ObedienceJOS 23:14PSA 119:89ISA 19:4MAT 24:35JHN 14:14ROM 10:13GAL 6:7HEB 13:52PE 3:91JN 1:9Chuck Smith emphasizes the faithfulness of God as Joshua addresses the Israelites in his old age, reminding them that they know in their hearts the truth of God's promises. He highlights that not one of God's words has failed, showcasing the fulfillment of His promises in their lives and the world around them. Smith warns that while God's faithfulness brings comfort to those who follow Him, it also serves as a warning for those who forsake His ways, as God will keep His word regarding both blessings and judgments. The sermon calls for a recognition of God's unwavering truth and the importance of responding to His promises with faithfulness.
How to Smell a Rat
By Anton Bosch0NUM 23:19PSA 119:89PSA 119:105MAT 5:18MAT 24:35JHN 14:6JHN 17:17ROM 3:4HEB 5:14HEB 13:8Anton Bosch preaches about the importance of discerning between spiritual poison and spiritual food as Christians mature in their faith, emphasizing the need to distinguish between truth and error. He highlights that truth is absolute and unchanging, centered around Jesus Christ as the way, the truth, and the life. The sermon also stresses that the Bible is complete, with God's revelation delivered once and for all through Jesus Christ, and warns against false prophets claiming new revelations. Additionally, it underscores that God does not change His mind, and His Word is settled and unchanging, guiding believers to measure all teachings against the Bible to avoid falling into error.
The Lord Faithful, and His Word True to the Last
By Octavius Winslow0Assurance of PromisesGod's FaithfulnessJOS 23:14PSA 37:5PSA 119:89ISA 40:8JHN 14:1ROM 4:21PHP 1:61TH 5:24HEB 10:232PE 1:4Octavius Winslow emphasizes the unwavering faithfulness of God and the truth of His promises, as illustrated by Joshua's reflection on God's fulfilled promises at the end of his life. He highlights that the sincerity of a believer is most evident in their final moments, where true faith emerges, and the assurance of God's word becomes a source of strength and comfort. Winslow encourages believers to trust in God's promises, especially during trials, as they are continually fulfilled in their lives. The sermon concludes with the hope that, like Joshua, believers will testify to God's faithfulness as they approach eternity, finding peace in His presence. Ultimately, the message is a celebration of God's unchanging love and the assurance of His promises.
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
The eightfold Lamed. Eternal and imperishable in the constant verifying of itself is the vigorous and consolatory word of God, to which the poet will ever cling. It has heaven as its standing-place, and therefore it also has the qualities of heaven, and before all others, heaven-like stability. Ps 89 (Psa 89:3) uses similar language in reference to God's faithfulness, of which here Psa 119:90 says that it endureth into all generations. The earth hath He creatively set up, and it standeth, viz., as a practical proof and as a scene of His infinite, unchangeable faithfulness. Heaven and earth are not the subjects of Psa 119:91 (Hupfeld), for only the earth is previously mentioned; the reference to the heavens in Psa 119:89 is of a very different character. Hitzig and others see the subject in למשׁפּטיך: with respect to Thy judgments, they stand fast unto this day; but the עבדיך which follows requires another meaning to be assigned to עמדוּ: either of taking up one's place ready for service, or, since עמד למשׁפט is a current phrase in Num 35:12; Jos 20:6; Eze 44:24, of placing one's self ready to obey (Bttcher). The subject of עמדוּ, as the following הכּל shows, is meant to be thought of in the most general sense (cf. Job 38:14): all beings are God's servants (subjects), and have accordingly to be obedient and humble before His judicial decisions - היּום, "even to this day," the poet adds, for these judicial decisions are those which are formulated beforehand in the Tra. Joy in this ever sure, all-conditioning word has upheld the poet in his affliction, Psa 119:92. He who has been persecuted and cast down as it were to death, owes his reviving to it, Psa 119:93. From Him whose possession or property he is in faith and love he also further looks for his salvation, Psa 119:94. Let evil-doers lie in wait for him (קוּוּ in a hostile sense, as in Psa 56:7, קוּה, cf. חכּה, going back to קוה, Arab. qawiya, with the broad primary signification, to be tight, firm, strong) to destroy him, he meditates on God's testimonies. He knows from experience that all (earthly) perfection (תּכלה) has an end (inasmuch as, having reached its height, it changes into its opposite); God's commandment (singular as in Deu 11:22), on the contrary, is exceeding broad (cf. Job 11:9), unlimited in its duration and verification.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
LAMED. (Psa 119:89-96). In all changes God's Word remains firm (Pe1 1:25). Like the heavens, it continually attests God's unfailing power and unchanging care (Psa 89:2). is settled in--that is, stands as firmly as the heaven in which it dwells, and whence it emanated.
John Gill Bible Commentary
I will never forget thy precepts,.... Not the precepts of the moral law, though he carefully observed and attended to them, laid them up in his mind, and did not forget to keep them; but the doctrines of the word, of the word which the Lord commanded to a thousand generations; these he endeavoured to remember, and not let them slip from him, since it follows: for with them thou hast quickened me: not with the precepts of the moral law, which cannot give life, quicken a dead sinner, nor comfort a distressed saint it is the killing letter, and the ministration of condemnation and death: but the doctrines of the word, of the Gospel, which are spirit and life; the savour of life unto life, the means of quickening dead sinners, and of reviving drooping saints; of refreshing their spirits, and cheering their souls, when in distress: and when they are made thus useful, they are not easily forgotten, they leave impressions which do not soon wear off; and besides, saints are careful to remember such words and truths, which have been of use unto them, since they may have occasion for them again.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
Here, 1. The psalmist acknowledges the unchangeableness of the word of God and of all his counsels: "For ever, O Lord! thy word is settled. Thou art for ever thyself (so some read it); thou art the same, and with thee there is no variableness, and this is a proof of it. Thy word, by which the heavens were made, is settled there in the abiding products of it;" or the settling of God's word in heaven is opposed to the changes and revolutions that are here upon earth. All flesh is grass; but the word of the Lord endures for ever. It is settled in heaven, that is, in the secret counsel of God, which is hidden in himself and is far above out of our sight, and is immovable, as mountains of brass. And his revealed will is as firm as his secret will; as he will fulfil the thoughts of his heart, so no word of his shall fall to the ground; for it follows here, Thy faithfulness is unto all generations, that is, the promise is sure to every age of the church and it cannot be antiquated by lapse of time. The promises that look ever so far forward shall be performed in their season. 2. He produces, for proof of it, the constancy of the course of nature: Thou hast established the earth for ever and it abides; it is what it was at first made, and where it was at first placed, poised with its own weight, and notwithstanding the convulsions in its own bowels, the agitations of the sea that is interwoven with it, and the violent concussions of the atmosphere that surrounds it, it remains unmoved. "They" (the heavens and the earth and all the hosts of both) "continue to this day according to thy ordinances; they remain in the posts wherein thou hast set them; they fill up the place assigned them, and answer the purposes for which they were intended." The stability of the ordinances of the day and night, of heaven and earth, is produced to prove the perpetuity of God's covenant, Jer 31:35, Jer 31:36; Jer 33:20, Jer 33:21. It is by virtue of God's promise to Noah (Gen 8:22) that day and night, summer and winter, observe a steady course. "They have continued to this day, and shall still continue to the end of time, acting according to the ordinances which were at first given them; for all are thy servants; they do thy will, and set forth thy glory, and in both are thy servants." All the creatures are, in their places, and according to their capacities, serviceable to their Creator, and answer the ends of their creation; and shall man be the only rebel, the only revolter from his allegiance, and the only unprofitable burden of the earth.?
Tyndale Open Study Notes
119:89-96 Lamedh (ל): The stability of God’s wisdom gives understanding. God’s word provides order and a framework for living, even when under pressure from adversaries.