Psalm 119 (53 of 190 notes)

47. Next to liberty and courage comes delight. When we have done our duty, we find a great reward in it. If David had not spoken for his Master before kings, he would have been afraid to think of the law which he had neglected; but after speaking up for his Lord he feels a sweet serenity of heart when musing upon the word. Obey the command and you will love it. After speaking of the law the psalmist retired to meditate upon it; he discoursed and then he delighted; he preached and then repaired to his study to renew his strength by feeding yet again upon the precious truth. The verse is in the future, and hence it sets forth not only what David had done but what he would do. He knew that grace would keep him in the same condition of heart towards the precepts of the Lord, so that he would throughout his whole life take a supreme delight in holiness. Here for the first time love is expressly spoken of. It is here coupled with delight, and in verse 165 with “great peace.” See also verses 47, 97, 113, 119, 127, 140, 159, 163, 165, 167.