Psalms 119:164
Seven times a day do I praise thee because of thy righteous judgments.
Psalms 119:164
This verse places praise at the center of life’s rhythm: seven times a day, praise is offered because of God’s righteous judgments. The number seven signals completeness and fullness in Hebrew thinking. The practice of repeated thanksgiving reflects a mindset that recognizes God’s daily mercy, guidance, and justice in every facet of life. In the broader Psalms, this cadence of praise emerges as a response to God’s faithfulness in creation, law, exile, and return. The reference to “righteous judgments” underscores that God’s decisions are inherently just, even when they are challenging or incomprehensible to humans. The verse invites readers into a posture of constant gratitude—an antidote to cynicism and despair. Culturally, daily religious life could include regular prayer times, but here the emphasis is on the heart’s daily dependence on God’s righteous governance.
Sevenfold praise signals a rhythm of worship that aligns with God’s perfect order. Theologically, it anchors gratitude not in circumstances but in God’s character and decrees. It asserts that God’s judgments are trustworthy and worthy of praise, even when life is difficult. This verse also deepens the doctrine of God’s law as not merely punitive but life-giving; righteous judgments reveal God’s wisdom for human flourishing. The repetition of praise cultivates humility, trust, and a sustained worship that transcends momentary feelings. Theologically, it points to Christ who embodies and fulfills the righteous standard and invites believers into ongoing praise through the Spirit.
How to live this today? Build a habit of daily praise—at meals, commute, or morning quiet time—recalling at least one way God’s judgments have guided and protected you. Let gratitude shape your outlook when plans fall apart or when you face unfairness; praise can reframe your perspective and invite trust. Practice thanksgiving in routine moments: a minute of thanks for a safe drive, a colleague’s help, or a difficult lesson learned. Use seven-in-a-day as a guide rather than a rigid rule: set reminders, journal brief gratitude notes, or sing or recite verses of praise in different contexts. This rhythm doesn’t deny lament; it integrates praise with honest prayer. Over time, a life structured by daily praise becomes resilient, hopeful, and anchored in God’s righteous governance.
Cross-References: Psalm 100:4; Psalm 34:1; 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18; Habakkuk 3:17-19; Revelation 4:11