Introduction

The 119th Psalm is a profound reflection on the nature and importance of God's Law. Within its verses, the psalmist expresses his deep longing for divine guidance and deliverance. Verse 170 serves as a climactic plea for help, eloquently capturing the essence of reliance on God’s promises. This commentary pulls together insights from various public domain commentaries to illuminate the depth of this verse.

Exegesis

1. Supplication before God

Matthew Henry notes that the psalmist begins this verse with a heartfelt cry for his "supplication" to be heard. This signals the importance of approaching God with humility and sincerity. The term "supplication" denotes earnest prayer, distinguished from casual requests, indicating a deep need for God's intervention.

2. The Nature of Divine Deliverance

Albert Barnes emphasizes that the request for deliverance is not merely a cry for physical rescue, but a holistic appeal for spiritual salvation. The psalmist recognizes that true deliverance is rooted in the character of God and His promises. This points to a deep understanding that the trials faced are not solely external but often internal spiritual struggles.

3. The Assurance of God's Word

Adam Clarke highlights the phrase “according to thy word.” This signifies the psalmist's faith in God's promises as the foundation for his plea. The reference to God’s word suggests that the psalmist is not pleading for random kindness but is reminding God of His covenant promises. This serves as a profound example of how believers can anchor their prayers in the Scripture, thereby compelling God to act in accordance with His revealed truth.

Theological Themes

1. The Importance of Prayer

Prayer is a recurring theme throughout the Psalms. In this verse, the act of supplication underscores an intimate relationship with God. It invites readers to consider the necessity of approaching God in prayer, especially during times of distress. The psalmist serves as an exemplar of genuine, heartfelt communication with the Creator.

2. Covenant Relationship

As reflected in the requests for deliverance "according to thy word," the psalmist acknowledges a covenantal relationship with God. This relationship is underscored by mutual promises: God promises to save, and in turn, His followers are called to trust and obey His commandments. This dynamic is essential for understanding the nature of faith in God’s Word.

3. The Role of Scripture in Life

The invocations for deliverance based on God's Word highlight the necessity of Scripture in a believer's life. The psalmist’s reliance on God's proclamations invokes a broader theological principle: that Scripture is a source of life, guidance, and comfort, particularly in moments of despair.

Practical Applications

For modern believers, Psalms 119:170 offers several practical insights:

• Intimacy in Prayer: Emphasizing the need for an earnest supplication fosters a deeper relational aspect in the believer's prayer life.
• Confidence in God’s Promises: Understanding that prayers should align with Scriptural principles encourages believers to immerse themselves in God's Word.
• Awareness of Spiritual Warfare: Recognizing that requests for deliverance often pertain to spiritual battles challenges believers to be vigilant and proactive in their spiritual lives.

Conclusion

Psalms 119:170 serves as a crucial reminder of the profound connection between prayer and the Word of God. The psalmist’s earnest plea encapsulates the essence of a believer's journey: a life defined by persistent seeking, reliance on divine promises, and the quest for deliverance through faith. As pastors, theologians, and students of the Scripture reflect on this verse, they are invited to deepen their understanding of prayer as an act of faith rooted in God’s revealed Word.