In today’s fast-paced world, understanding our faith is more crucial than ever. As I reflect on the student ministry over the past 5-7 years, I consider questions like: Have we equipped you to know and own your faith? As students transition into adulthood—whether heading to college, starting their first job, or navigating the complexities of life—will you be prepared to articulate why you believe what you believe?
These types of questions guide us in how we plan our sermon series, events, mission trips, and community projects. We hope that one day, students can look back on these years in the student ministry and confidently understand and embrace the reasons behind their faith. David, in Psalm 119:41-48, offers us seven valuable pieces of advice to help us know and own our faith.
Take Possession of Your Faith (v. 41)
“Let your steadfast love come to me, O LORD, your salvation according to your promise…”
David’s plea for God’s steadfast love and salvation underscores his understanding of God’s promises. In David's time, the full revelation of salvation was still unfolding, but he grasped the promise that a Messiah would come to restore creation. David took possession of his faith by believing that what God promised would come to pass. He trusted in God’s Word, even when the full picture was not yet visible.
Trust God’s Word (vv. 42-43)
“…then shall I have an answer for him who taunts me, for I trust in your word. And take not the word of truth utterly out of my mouth, for my hope is in your rules.”
David’s trust in God’s Word is evident as he faces attacks on his faith. He knows that his defense rests not on his own strength but on the truth of God’s Word. This echoes the advice from 1 Peter 3:15, where believers are called to always be prepared to give an answer for their hope. In a world full of skepticism and personal claims against Christianity, it’s vital to ground our faith in the unchanging truth of Scripture.
Keep God’s Word (v. 44)
“I will keep your law continually, forever and ever…”
Our obedience to God’s Word reflects our faith and demonstrates its authenticity to those around us. Daniel Akin says it this way:
“The best apologetic and defense of our Christian faith is a transformed life that speaks the truth in love. Our daily obedience and surrender to the lordship of Christ and his Word powerfully demonstrate the reality of our faith." [1]
In Psalm 119:44, David’s commitment to keeping God’s Word forever shows his deep understanding of its value. For many, obedience can be challenging, especially with the fear of missing out. Yet, obeying God’s Word brings fulfillment and life that nothing else can offer.
Walk in God’s Word (v. 45)
“…and I shall walk in a wide place, for I have sought your precepts.”
David’s advice to walk in God’s Word signifies an active, ongoing response to God. This reminds me of the time I trained for a Western hunting trip by running countless trail miles. I had to be active to prepare for what was going to happen in a much different area of the world. We must actively live out God’s Word. Walking in God’s Word involves daily choices and actions that align with His teachings, and as we do so, our faith becomes a living testimony to others. Which leads us to the next bit of advice.
Proclaim God’s Word (v. 46)
“I will also speak of your testimonies before kings and shall not be put to shame…”
David's commitment to proclaiming God’s Word demonstrates the natural overflow of a life lived in obedience and trust. This mirrors the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20, where Jesus commands His followers to make disciples of all nations. For our proclamation to be effective, it must be rooted in a genuine and lived faith. If our faith is weak or inconsistent, our ability to share the Gospel effectively is compromised.
Love God’s Word (v. 47)
“…for I find my delight in your commandments, which I love.”
Loving something takes time and personal investment. Just as my love for my wife has deepened over years of shared experiences, so too does our love for God’s Word grow as you engage with it deeply. David’s delight in God’s Word reflects a profound personal connection that develops over time, making it a source of joy and strength.
Reflect on God’s Word (v. 48)
“I will lift up my hands toward your commandments, which I love, and I will meditate on your statutes.”
Lastly, David advises us to reflect on God’s Word. Reflecting on Scripture helps us understand its depth and relevance in our lives. While it may seem challenging, understanding the broader themes of creation, fall, redemption, and restoration can help us piece together the Bible’s message. Reflection helps us grasp how God’s Word impacts our daily lives and strengthens our faith.
Conclusion
Ultimately, God’s Word is a tool for a deeper relationship with Him. It reveals our human condition, addresses our deepest problems, and offers the only true solution through redemption. As David illustrates, our faith journey involves trust, obedience, active living, proclamation, love, and reflection on God’s Word. These practices help us to not only know our faith but also to live it out in a way that impacts others.
As you live life, I challenge you to hear God’s Word, respond to it, and let it shape every aspect of your life. In doing so, you will grow in your understanding and ownership of your faith, and it will naturally overflow to those around you.
[1] Daniel L. Akin, Christ-Centered Exposition: Psalm 119 (Nashville: Holman Reference, 2014), 41.