Psalm 119 (118):86Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Now, listen to his further words: "Blessed are they that keep his testimonies, and seek him with all their heart" (Psalm 117:2). It appears that this categorization of the blessed refers to those previously mentioned. To diligently examine the testimonies of the Lord and to earnestly seek Him is to embody blamelessness on the path, to walk according to the law of the Lord. He continues, "For they that do evil shall not walk in His ways" (Psalm 118:3). Yet we understand that those who commit iniquity also engage with the testimonies of the Lord, often prioritizing understanding over righteousness; there are others who explore these testimonies not because they live righteously, but to learn how they ought to conduct themselves. Such individuals do not walk blamelessly in the law of the Lord and, consequently, are not yet blessed.

The scripture states unequivocally, "They that do evil walk not in His ways" (Psalm 118:3). We must strive, with divine assistance, recognizing that both we and our words are held in God’s hands (Wisdom 7:16), to ensure that what is rightly said is also rightly understood, lest it confound the reader or listener. We should be cautious of interpreting the words of all the saints, who declare, "If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us" (1 John 1:8-9). Either it must be concluded that they cannot be viewed as walking in the paths of the Lord—since sin is indeed wickedness, and those who do evil do not walk in His ways—or, since they clearly do walk in those ways, we err in thinking they are without sin, a notion that is manifestly false. This statement is intended not merely to prevent arrogance and pride; otherwise, it would have articulated that humility is absent. The subsequent words illuminate the message and eliminate uncertainty, as blessed John affirms, "If we confess our sins, He, being faithful and just, will forgive us our sins, and cleanse us from all unrighteousness" (1 John 1:9).

What does it signify when we are accused of upholding Your commandments too scrupulously? (Psalm 118:4) Have we claimed too large a sum? Or neglected something? Regardless of our interpretation, this sentiment seems to conflict with the renowned and esteemed principle praised by the Greeks in their philosophers and commended unanimously by the Latins: "Do nothing excessively." Yet, the Latin term "nimis" can sometimes carry a weightier meaning, as seen in scripture and customary in our discourse. In this context, the accusation of holding Your commandments with excessive rigor can be understood significantly; thus, if we tell a cherished friend, "I love you too much," we do not intend to imply an inappropriate amount, but rather a profound affection.

Ah, if only, he exclaims, my ways could be aligned so that I may adhere to Your decrees (Psalm 118:5)! You have indeed taken upon Yourself a monumental task: how I wish to embody what You have assumed. When you hear this, recognize the language of one who is willing; having discerned the expression of desire, let go of the arrogance of assumption. For who claims to truly desire what is within their capability to achieve without divine aid? Therefore, if one wishes to fulfill what God commands, it is essential to pray for His assistance in granting the power to obey.

And I shall not be shamed as long as I observe all Your commandments (Psalm 118:6). We should regard God's commandments as a mirror when they are proclaimed or remembered, as the apostle James notes (James 1:23-25). This individual desires to view himself in this mirror of God's commandments without confusion, seeking to be not merely a hearer but a doer. Thus, he longs for his ways to be straight and his adherence to God's statutes. How can one achieve a straight path except through the grace of God? Otherwise, one would find in God's law not a source of joy but rather confusion if they do not truly reflect upon the commandments.

"I will confess to Thee, O Lord, with the integrity of my heart; in this, I will understand the judgments of Your righteousness" (Psalm 117:7). This is not merely a confession of sin, but an expression of praise; as it is written, "In whom there was no sin, I confess unto Thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth" (Matthew 11:25), and as recorded in the book of Ecclesiasticus: "Confess all the works of God, that they are very good" (Sirach 39:15-16). I confess to You, he states, in accordance with the guidance of my heart. Indeed, if my ways are made right, I will acknowledge You, for it is Your work, deserving of praise, not mine.

He goes on to declare: "I will keep Your decrees" (Psalm 118:8). But what follows? "O do not abandon me even to a fault!" or, according to some versions, "not even excessively." Although God withdrew from the world filled with sin, He would have abandoned it entirely if not for the potent remedy provided, which is the grace of God through our Lord Jesus Christ. However, according to this prayer of Christ’s body, He did not forsake it excessively, for "God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself" (2 Corinthians 5:19).

Such belief bestows courage, yet it does not eliminate the sorrow of persecution nor justify its injustice. Therefore, even within this certainty, the request, "Help me," remains fitting; it even amplifies our boldness to seek assistance. One who perseveres in righteousness does not simply endure persecution but experiences punishment—how then can he utter, "Help me?" This is feasible only if accompanied by repentance. Even then, a more fitting plea would be, "I suffer righteously; forgive and have mercy!" St. Ambrosius observes, "The prophet did not state, 'If they persecute me, help me,' but rather, 'Unjustly persecute me, help me.'" After all, while another may endure persecution justly—there exists a righteous persecution of vice—one who suffers for truth, purity, or faith rightly claims the prophet's words, "Unrighteously persecuted, help me." The phrase "help me" encapsulates both a plea for rescue from persecution and a request for strength to withstand such trials. Devoted followers of virtue trust that God knows what is ultimately best for us in our external circumstances. St. Ambrosius remarks that, like a disciplined soldier, the prophet does not shy away from conflict nor fear engaging with adversaries, accustomed as he is to warfare; instead, as one proven faithful, he seeks divine assistance and bolsters his resolve through earnest prayer. He does not implore for the cessation of persecution but rather for the fortitude to endure it. Recognizing that a godly life cannot be devoid of persecution, he willingly stands firm in his piety. We face numerous persecutors, both seen and unseen—unclean spirits, heretics, pagans, Jews. All who aspire to live a godly life inevitably encounter persecution; finding even a moment free from it is challenging for a true devotee of righteousness. Perhaps it is valid to infer that our lack of suffering indicates a failure to live a genuinely godly existence; after all, it is said, "if you who want to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted" (2 Tim. 3:12); conversely, those who do not face persecution have yet to embark on living a true godly life in Christ. In the absence of strife, might it not be due to a lack of willingness to engage in the conflict? The Lord proclaimed, "if they cast me out, they will also cast you out" (John 15:20). Saint David, attuned to this truth in spirit long before the Lord's Incarnation, boldly joined the battle as a true disciple of Christ; he understood that such engagement would secure his piety, safeguard his salvation, and earn him a crown of glory.

My fervent longing for assistance, my anticipation of the fulfillment of Your word, Your promise, and Your comfort nearly overwhelms me. I have grown weak amid my trials, yet I remain loyal to You. My days are fleeting, so please come to my aid in a timely manner; the empty words of my friends aim to deceive me, contrary to Your law. Your promises, which are encompassed in Your commandments, are unwavering; therefore, bring judgment upon my oppressors, who gravely threaten my life. Sustain my existence through Your grace. Just as leather shrinks in the cold, I feel the effects of my suffering.