Psalms 119:167
My soul hath kept thy testimonies; and I love them exceedingly.
Psalms 119:167
This verse presents a deeply intimate portrayal: the soul keeps God’s testimonies, and the love for them grows exceedingly. The word “testimonies” here emphasizes God’s authoritative, experiential revelations—the ways God has testified about himself and his will. The ongoing keeping indicates active, deliberate obedience—the soul isn’t passive but vigilant, guarding and treasuring God’s instructions. The phrase “love them exceedingly” marks a growth trajectory: initial acceptance matures into fervent devotion. In the broader psalm, keeping God’s precepts and testimonies yields a life of discernment, steadfastness, and ethical vitality. Culturally, the psalmist is communing with a people who long for homeland and divine guidance; the heart’s posture towards God’s word becomes a compass for life.
This verse foregrounds liturgical memory and relational love as core to covenant life. The words imply that knowing God’s word is not merely intellectual assent but affective devotion. The more one understands and experiences God’s goodness, the stronger the love grows. Theologically, it asserts that obedience is a response borne from love, not obligation, aligning with Jesus’ teaching that love fulfills the law. It also points to the Spirit’s work in regenerating desire; our affections are transformed so that we desire what God desires.
Practical steps: cultivate a love for God’s testimonies through regular, reflective study. Read a passage, observe how it reveals God, and note how it applies to your life. Then write down one way you will demonstrate love for the word that day—e.g., choosing honesty in a tricky conversation, forgiving a past hurt, or patiently guiding a child. Let your daily choices sanctify your affections; as you practice, your love for the word deepens. Use memory verses to reinforce what you’ve learned; recite them in moments of temptation or discouragement. Engage in community: discuss Scripture, share testimonies of how the word has changed you, and encourage others to grow in love for God’s commandments.
Cross-References: Psalm 1:2; Psalm 19:7-11; John 14:15; 1 John 5:3; Psalm 119:97