from Psalm 119:113-120 “I hate the double-minded, but I love your law…I hope in your word.” v. 113-114
As we continue our journey through the “How to Study the Bible” series on the Dwelling Richly podcast, today’s focus brings us to Psalm 119:113-120. This portion of the psalm is particularly striking as it opens with a bold declaration: “I hate the double-minded, but I love your law.” The psalmist challenges us to examine our own hearts—are we fully committed to God’s Word, or are we wavering between two opinions?
Rejecting Double-Mindedness
The term “double-minded” isn’t just about indecision; it’s about a lack of commitment to God’s truth. In 1 Kings 18:21, the prophet Elijah confronted the Israelites, asking them, “How long will you go limping between two different opinions?” I love that wording: “limping along!” It’s so accurate to describe any of us – me! – when we are double-minded. Just like Elijah, the psalmist in Psalm 119 urges us to make a clear choice: embrace God’s law wholeheartedly and reject anything that compromises our faith.
In the New Testament, James 1:8 describes the double-minded person as “unstable in all his ways.” This instability stems from a divided heart—one that hasn’t fully committed to God’s wisdom and guidance. James 4:8 calls us to purify our hearts and draw near to God, leaving behind any trace of double-mindedness.
Clinging to Hope
But the psalmist doesn’t just stop at hate; he quickly turns to hope. “You are my hiding place and my shield; I hope in your word” (Psalm 119:114). Isnt’ this reassuring?? For me it is. I feel the uncertainty of this world – heck, I feel it in my own heart! – but, this verse reassures us that even in a world full of distractions and uncertainties, God’s Word remains our refuge. When we cling to the Scriptures, we find the stability and hope we desperately need.
One of my favorite verses is from Psalm 73:26. It puts the idea like this: “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” It’s a beautiful reminder that our hope isn’t based on our own strength but on God’s unchanging nature and His promises. Thank God! Seriously, Thank God!
Upholding the Word
This section of Psalm 119 is marked by the Hebrew letter “samech,” a symbol of support and protection. In verses 116-117, the psalmist uses a word that closely resembles “samech,” asking God to “uphold” him according to His promise. This is more than a simple request; it’s a plea for life itself—recognizing that without God’s support, we are nothing.
The shape of the letter “samech” is very much like a circle, symbolizing completeness and God’s surrounding protection. Just as the psalmist seeks God’s upholding, we too must lean on God’s Word as our support, trusting that He will sustain us in all circumstances. I often picture the circle imagery of protection—like when they would gather wagons around and “circle the wagons” for protection in the old days. That’s what God is for us. When we are surrounded by His Word, we are safe, shielded from the storms of life. Again…thank you, God!
I love how the imagery of “samech” as a circle ties in with our need for God’s constant protection. It’s like when you physically hold your Bible in your hands, flipping through its pages, taking notes—there’s something powerful about that tangible connection to God’s Word. I encourage you to bring your Bible with you wherever you go, hold it, and let it be a constant reminder of God’s unending support.
Takeaways for Studying the Bible
So, how do we study the Bible effectively? This passage from Psalm 119 offers us a roadmap:
- Reject double-mindedness: Make a firm decision to follow God’s Word without wavering.
- Cling to hope: Trust in God’s promises and let His Word be your refuge.
- Seek God’s support: Ask God to uphold you as you study, understanding that His Word is your source of life.
I encourage you to reflect on these themes as you dive deeper into your Bible study. If you want to explore this topic more, listen to the full episode of the Dwelling Richly podcast. Together, we can continue to grow in our understanding and love for God’s Word.
If you found this post helpful, I invite you to listen to the full podcast episode. There, I dive deeper into this section of Psalm 119 and share more insights on how to grow in your study of the Bible.
Listen to the Full Episode
You can listen to this full episode (Episode #935) on your favorite platform or right here on the blog. Let’s journey together in discovering the boundless beauty of God’s eternal Word – delighting and not just, “doing” Bible study!
The Dwelling Richly podcast is where I teach, think, share, and engage with you about God’s Word – how to let it dwell in us and how we can return the favor, and dwell in the Word. I invite you to say hi, leave a comment, share your thoughts, and even share this post. Click “Dwelling Richly” on the menu above and explore the podcast, blog, and Bible studies. All free and open to you – be a part of the Dwelling Richly community. ~Jennifer
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