In The Path - Psalm 119:35
Psalm 119:35 Lead me in the path of your commandments, for I delight in it.
We see first, that the psalmist asks the Lord to “lead” him in the path. This can also be translated as “make me walk,” but the idea being conveyed is that of bending a bow. Before the archer makes ready his weapon he has but wood and string. These materials are uncontrolled and without will. But this string and wood have a purpose, and one of immense importance and magnitude. Together, and under the right master, this tool is a warrior’s dream, it is his companion and friend. Here, David is asking, “Lord put me together and make me useful, strengthen the powers of my soul and make me able to do your duty.” It is a Christian’s gladness to be used by the Lord and God’s delight to use him, for the Apostle says “it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13).
Notice also the frequency with which David asks the Lord for guidance and direction. This is no mistake or trite redundancy of the psalmist. This is an acknowledgment of the pervasive nature of the encroachments of the world, and the relative weakness of the human heart toward such temptations. The enticement of the world has all of God’s dear saints by the heart and distracts us from our soul's deepest longing. But there is a remedy. It is and must be the business, the occupation, the position, and pursuit of the life of the Christian to serve and worship Adonai - the Lord!
But here, O’ dear saint of God, we hear these sweet words, “in your commandments I delight.” Is this the flutter of your heart? Can this be spoken of in your soul with sincerity? David is no perfect man, nor are you without blemish. Perfection is not the measure, but rather sincerity and humility. When the heart can utter these whispers this is an indication that your sentiments and affections have been so arranged that you are endeavoring to make no provision for your flesh (Romans 13:14). This means that rather than relish in the things of this world, you have received joy in nothing more than to be in the service of your Lord.
And alas, the psalmist rests in the grace of God knowing that he must still be led - knowing that he must still be made to walk along the path. Fathers hold the hands of their children as they stumble, always catching them before they fall.
