Comfort and Life
The 119 Psalm is the longest chapter in the Bible and it’s all about the Word of God. Whether referred to as the law, the statutes, judgements, testimonies or precepts, the focus is the same. The author of this Psalm (whom many believe was David) reveals the importance of the Word of God. It brings liberty. It guides our way. It helps us walk in wisdom and in prudence.
Psalm 119 holds many precious gems. Among them is one of my favorite scriptures, Psalm 119:50 This is my comfort in my affliction, For Your word has given me life. The Psalmist testifies of a beautiful aspect of God’s Word; it brings comfort and strength.
The psalmist was no stranger to affliction. It is evident that he had experienced much hardship, but over and over he finds comfort in the Word of God. Notice what is said here, IN my affliction—While I’m yet in the thick of it! In the middle of a messy divorce; during a battle with an illness: in the midst of loneliness and depression; amid a financial crisis or legal drama; while fighting for your family and friends, The Word will comfort you. The Message Bible paraphrases it this way, “These words hold me up in bad times”.
The Word, like a faithful friend, gives us a place to lean on. It is a place where we can firmly plant our feet and ride out the fiercest storms. I’m not just referring to the lifeless words of a natural man or woman, but the Author of life gives us hope producing promises that we can hang our hat on.
His Word gives us life. It rejuvenates and refreshes us. It revives and even refocuses us. An elderly church mother would say, it gives us the strength to “run on a little while longer”. The Word breathes a fresh prospective into dry and hard places.
This is why being absorbed in His Word is so important! Read it, speak it, WRITE IT, listen to it. Breathe it in, inhale it and exhale it! It’s the life giving comfort you need.
Are you experiencing the comfort of the Word of God? Allow me to share some life giving promises that have held me up in bad times.
Loneliness- Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10
Joy- When anxiety was great within me, Your consolation brought me joy. Psalm 94:19
Healing- Surely He has borne our griefs And carried our sorrows; Yet we esteemed Him stricken, Smitten by God, and afflicted. But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon Him, And by His stripes we are healed. Isaiah 53:4-5
Lack- And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19
Hope- For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11
Heartbreak- The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18
All occasions- Cast all your care upon Him, for He cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7
May the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you. 1 Peter 5:10