September 15

Introduction

Psalm 119:1–16: Today we begin reading Psalm 119, the longest psalm in the Bible, a psalm that praises God’s law or instruction. Each of the psalm’s twenty-two sections contains eight verses, and each verse begins with the Hebrew letter that names its section. For the next eleven days, we will be reading two sections of the psalm (16 verses). The opening of Psalm 119 describes those who follow the law of the LORD as happy and deserving of approval.

Today’s Key Verse: Psalm 119:12

I praise you, O LORD; teach me your ways.

Reflect

Today’s passage reflects the ways in which God’s law encourages the living of a “pure” life (verse 9). Here “pure” is an image of a life that is free from sin and consistently in keeping with God’s will. What does it mean to you to live a “pure” life? How does that apply to your spiritual life? How does that apply to your relationships and tasks in life?

Pray

Holy God, I worship you with all my heart. Your instruction is the sure way to happiness and I eagerly seek to understand your teachings. Help me to keep my life pure by obeying your commands. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Psalm 119:17–32: The psalmist is determined to obey the law of the LORD.