Psalms 119:135 - Commentary Overview

Bible Verse: "Make your face shine upon your servant, and teach me your statutes." (Psalms 119:135, ESV)

In this verse, the psalmist’s deep longing for divine illumination and guidance is powerfully expressed. The request for God to "make your face shine" upon him emphasizes a desire for the tangible presence of God, which in biblical terms often symbolizes favor, blessing, and illumination.

Insights from Commentaries

Matthew Henry's Commentary

Matthew Henry emphasizes the connection between experiencing God's presence (i.e., His face shining) and spiritual instruction. He notes that the psalmist recognizes that divine teaching comes from a close relationship with God.

• Divine Favor: Henry explains that the "face" of God represents His favor and His grace toward His chosen ones. The psalmist looks for enlightenment as he navigates the complexities of life.
• Desire for Instruction: The request to "teach me your statutes" reflects the psalmist’s humble acknowledgment of his own need for guidance in moral and spiritual living.
• Divine Communication: According to Henry, God's shining face indicates an intimate communication where God reveals His will and ways, thereby enabling the believer to walk in righteousness.

Albert Barnes' Notes on the Bible

Albert Barnes expands on the implications of God's face shining upon the believer. His commentary points out the motivation and the spiritual state of the psalmist.

• Emphasis on the Servant: Barnes highlights the term "servant" as indicative of humility and devotion. The psalmist sees himself as a vessel dependent upon God's instruction and light.
• Theological Reflection: The notion of God's face shining can be associated with the Aaronic blessing from Numbers 6:24-26, reinforcing the desire for peace and divine guidance in one’s life.
• Prayer as a Pathway: Barnes asserts that the plea for teaching stems from a personal prayerful relationship with God, suggesting that through prayer, believers seek clarity and understanding in their lives.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Adam Clarke provides a pastoral and doctrinal perspective on this verse, calling attention to the hunger and thirst for righteousness that characterizes the true believer.

• God’s Presence as Illumination: Clarke posits that the shining of God’s face symbolizes enlightenment. Where God’s presence is felt, darkness dissipates, and the path to understanding is illuminated.
• Instruction in Statutes: The teaching of statutes is not merely academic but transformational. Clarke suggests that understanding God’s laws leads to a holy life marked by obedience and wisdom.
• Application to Daily Life: Clarke emphasizes that the psalmist’s prayer serves as a model for believers to cultivate a yearning for divine wisdom in their daily decisions and moral conduct.

Theological Implications

This verse raises significant theological considerations regarding the nature of God and His interaction with humanity:

• The Relational Aspect of God: The psalmist’s prayer demonstrates that God is not merely a distant creator but is intimately involved in the lives of His followers, desiring to bless and instruct.
• Human Dependency on Divine Guidance: The plea to be taught reflects our inherent need for divine direction, showcasing the humility required to seek wisdom beyond ourselves.
• The Role of Prayer in Spiritual Growth: Both corporate and personal prayers must reflect this yearning for God's enlightenment, bridging the gap between human understanding and divine revelation.

Practical Applications

For pastors, students, and theologians, this verse serves as a rich source of inspiration for personal devotion and teaching:

• Encouragement in Prayer: Encourage congregations to engage earnestly in prayer, exemplifying the psalmist's model of seeking God's face and desire for His statutes.
• Teach on God’s Favor: Explore the theme of God’s favor in teaching settings, illustrating how God’s presence fosters spiritual growth and empowerment.
• Application in Counseling: Utilize this verse in counseling contexts, emphasizing the need for understanding God's guidance amidst life’s challenges and the peace that comes from His smiling presence.

Conclusion

Psalms 119:135 encapsulates profound desires for divine favor and illumination. It is a heartfelt prayer that blends yearning for God’s closeness with an urgent need for His instruction. Engaging with this verse through the lenses of Henry, Barnes, and Clarke reveals timeless truths essential for spiritual leaders and laypersons alike. By consistently seeking God's face and guidance, believers can cultivate a deeper relationship with the Divine and navigate the intricate paths of life with wisdom and grace.