Psalms 119:124 - Meaning and Application

Here, David asks God to teach him. He wants to know his whole duty, and when he is unsure, he asks God to make it clear. In trouble, it is better to ask what we should do than what we should expect. It is better to seek help in understanding God’s commands than to chase after predictions about the future.

If God, who gave us his statutes, does not teach us, we will never truly learn them. David’s next request shows how God teaches. He says, “Give me understanding,” meaning a renewed mind that is ready to receive God’s light, “that I may know your testimonies.” Only God can give that kind of understanding, the kind we need in order to know his word. Those who know God’s testimonies best still want to know them better. They keep asking God to teach them and never think they have learned enough.

David also gives reasons for his request. First, he pleads God’s mercy: “Deal with me according to your mercy.” The best believers know this is the strongest plea for any blessing. We do not deserve God’s favor, and we cannot claim it as something he owes us. We are most at peace when we throw ourselves on his mercy and leave ourselves in his hands. When we ask to be taught, we should ask for it as a mercy and count it a kindness to be instructed.

Second, David pleads his place as God’s servant: “I am your servant, and have work to do for you; therefore teach me to do it and to do it well.” A servant has reason to expect guidance from his master when he does not know what to do. If the master can help, he should teach him and give him understanding. David is saying, “Lord, I want to serve you. Show me how.” Anyone who is truly set on doing God’s will as his servant will be made to know God’s testimonies (John 7:17; Psalm 25:14).