Weekly Introduction: Because the psalmist is living his life according to the precepts of God’s Word, he is able to rejoice in the life God has given him as he successfully navigates the unexpected turns and potential pitfalls of life. I pray that you will sense the joy of the psalmist as we look at the next 8 verses presented under the heading of the seventeenth letter of the Hebrew alphabet, Pe.

 Your statutes are wonderful; therefore I obey them (vs 129).

The psalmist begins this section by affirming his opinion of God’s statutes, that is, they are simply wonderful. I hope that you and I can make the same affirmation, because they keep us from destroying our lives. And that’s why the psalmist has decided to obey those statutes.

The unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple (130).

Not only do God’s commandments provide wisdom and understanding for those who are not scholars, but they also provide light for our paths. God’s statutes show us the direction in which to walk as we avoid the “landmines” that would destroy our lives.

I open my mouth and pant, longing for your commands (131).

As the psalmist reflected on those times when he desperately needed oxygen and was breathing heavily and even panting at the end of a race, that is how he describes his longing to know and observe God’s commands. He desperately needed to fill his lungs with air, and that is how he felt about longing to fill his life with God’s Word.

Turn to me and have mercy on me, as you always do to those who love your name (132).

Apparently at this time, the psalmist was asking God to turn His face toward him and not give him what he deserved (that’s mercy). We don’t know the specific situation, but I’m sure we have all had those time when we seek God’s mercy, as the psalmist is reminded that God always forgives when we love Him and call upon His name for forgiveness.

Direct my footsteps according to your word; let no sin rule over me (133).

Between the “landmines of life,” there is plenty of freedom for us to move toward the goal of honoring God, and the psalmist wants God to direct his steps, but always according to His Word, never against it. And then, of course, he asks God to not allow any sin to take him captive. Possibly, the psalmist is looking at one particular sin for which he previously asked for mercy, and he does not want this sin to control his life, and we should all do the same.

Redeem me from human oppression, that I may obey your precepts (134).

The psalmist asks to be rescued from those who oppress him, possibly ridiculing him for being so faithful in keeping the Lord’s commandments. Once again, he expresses his longing to obey God’s precepts under all circumstances.

Make your face shine on your servant, and teach me your decrees (135).

This is a beautiful expression of one who wants God to show His favor upon His servant, that is, to be pleased with the direction in life that he is taking. And once again, the psalmist wants God to continue to teach him His decrees, as he is never too old to learn from the Lord.

Streams of tears flow from my eyes, for your law is not obeyed (136).

Sadness overwhelms the psalmist as he sees those who continue to disobey God’s laws. And such sadness should also overwhelm us as we see others who are leading their lives that will only end in destruction.

I pray that each of us will so order our lives according to God’s precepts that we can bring honor to Him and avoid the “landmines” of sin that will destroy us and our testimony for Christ. Blessings to all of you.