READ Psalm 119:73–80. 73 Your hands made me and formed me; give me understanding to learn your commands. 74 May those who fear you rejoice when they see me, for I have put my hope in your word. 75 I know, LORD, that your laws are righteous, and that in faithfulness you have afflicted me. 76 May your unfailing love be my comfort, according to your promise to your servant. 77 Let your compassion come to me that I may live, for your law is my delight. 78 May the arrogant be put to shame for wronging me without cause; but I will meditate on your precepts. 79 May those who fear you turn to me, those who understand your statutes. 80 May I wholeheartedly follow your decrees, that I may not be put to shame.
THE WITNESS OF SUFFERING. The psalmist reflects on how his suffering affects other believers—“those who fear you” (verses 74 and 79). He believes his suffering has been appointed by God “in faithfulness,” that is, in love and wisdom (verse 75; cf. Genesis 50:20 and Romans 8:28). When others see him trusting God like that, they will get joy through his courageous hope (verse 74). During his trouble the psalmist meditates on the Word deeply enough for comfort (verse 76), delight (verse 77), and wholeheartedness (verse 80), “an inward being in which every capacity is perfectly integrated around the word.”126 When other believers see the power of the Word in his life, it draws them together and deepens loving fellowship. Suffering, rightly met, creates rich community and friendship.
Prayer: Lord, when I am licking my wounds I don’t think of anyone else and I want to be alone. But help me at such times to be open to others’ help, and show me ways to encourage them in my times of difficulty. Lord, you thought only of me during your suffering, so let me think of my community during mine. Amen.