Psalm 119:77

77 Surround me with your tender mercies so I may live, for your instructions are my delight.

Psalm 119:77 Meaning and Commentary

Psalms 119:77

Let thy tender mercies come unto me
(See Gill on Psalms 119:41);

that I may live;
not merely corporeally; though corporeal life is a grant and favour, and the continuance of it; it is owing to the tender mercies of God that men are not consumed: but spiritually; the first principle of spiritual life is from the rich mercy and great love of God; his time of love is a time of life. Here it seems to design the lively exercise of grace, which is influenced, animated, and quickened by the love of God, as faith, hope, and love; or a living comfortably: without the love of God, and a view of it, saints look upon themselves as dead men, forgotten as they are, free among the dead, that are remembered no more; but in the favour of God is life; let but that be shown, let the tender mercies of God come in full flow into the soul, and it will be revived, and live comfortably; and such also shall live eternally, as the fruit and effect of the same love and favour;

for thy law [is] my delight;
or "delights" ^F21; what he exceedingly delighted in, after the inward man, and yet could not live by it, without the mercy, love, and grace of God; see ( Psalms 119:24 Psalms 119:47 Psalms 119:70 ) .

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FOOTNOTES:

F21 (yevev) "deliciae meae", Montanus, Tigurine versions Cocceius; "oblectationes meae", Gejerus; so Michaelis.

Psalm 119:77 In-Context

75 I know, O LORD, that your regulations are fair; you disciplined me because I needed it.

76 Now let your unfailing love comfort me, just as you promised me, your servant.

77 Surround me with your tender mercies so I may live, for your instructions are my delight.

78 Bring disgrace upon the arrogant people who lied about me; meanwhile, I will concentrate on your commandments.

79 Let me be united with all who fear you, with those who know your laws.