Psalms 119:20 Commentary

Psalms 119:20 states, "My soul breaketh for the longing that it hath unto thy judgments at all times." This verse captures the profound emotional and spiritual yearning of the psalmist towards God’s laws and decrees. It reveals deep desire, representing a heart fervently desiring communion with God through His commandments. The following commentary draws from the insights of noted scholars and theologians.

Spiritual Longing and Emotion

Matthew Henry highlights the psalmist's overwhelming longing as an expression of deep spirituality. He notes that such a yearning indicates not just an intellectual desire for understanding God's law, but an emotional bond that comes from devout love. Henry writes, "A true desire for the word of God is one of the best evidences of a gracious state." This reinforces the idea that a longing for divine judgments is indicative of a soul receptive to God's will.

The Weight of Anxiety

The phrase "my soul breaketh for the longing" connotes struggle and anguish. Adam Clarke expounds that it reflects a soul burdened by its desire for divine truth, suggesting that the psalmist is almost overwhelmed by the weight of this longing. Clarke observes that this sentiment arises in the context of a world filled with distractions and moral decay, where God’s commandments are often disregarded.

Judgment and Righteousness

Albert Barnes describes "thy judgments" as God's righteous decrees that govern human behavior. He emphasizes that the psalmist’s longing is not merely for knowledge but for the application of these judgments in life. Barnes argues that this yearning reflects a desire for justice and righteousness in a world that often lacks them. He writes, "Those who desire the will of God reflect upon it as a guide for living a righteous life."

Constant Yearning

The phrase "at all times" indicates that this longing is not transient but a continuous state of being. Both Henry and Clarke confirm that this represents the psalmist's commitment to seek God’s judgments consistently throughout his life. Clarke states that this persistent yearning is essential for spiritual growth, asserting that the more one desires God’s Word, the more one will be filled with His presence.

The Nature of the Soul’s Longing

Psalms 119:20 invites reflection on the nature of such a longing. The emotional intensity described points to an intrinsic connection between the psalmist's soul and the Word of God. Henry suggests that this relationship is akin to physical hunger, where the soul yearns for spiritual nourishment provided by divine truths. He remarks, "As hunger and thirst drive us to seek sustenance, so should our souls be driven to God’s laws."

Conclusion

In conclusion, Psalms 119:20 encapsulates a deep emotional and spiritual yearning for God’s judgments. Insight from Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke encourages readers to reflect on their own longing for divine wisdom and how this desire shapes their walk with God. The psalmist's expression serves as a reminder of the importance of a heart that not only seeks God’s Word but desires its application and revelation in daily life. Through this yearning, believers can experience deeper communion with God and an understanding of His righteous ways.