Introduction

This verse encapsulates the psalmist's commitment to follow God's commandments, illustrating a profound connection between obedience and the requirement of divine enablement. This commentary synthesizes insights from various public domain sources, particularly those of Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke, to provide a comprehensive understanding of this poignant verse.

Verse Breakdown

In examining Psalms 119:32, we encounter a threefold structure:

• Desire to Obey: "I will run the way of thy commandments"
• Divine Assistance: "when thou shalt enlarge my heart"
• The Result of Obedience: Enhanced fervor in the pursuit of God's will

Insights from Commentators

Matthew Henry

Henry emphasizes the active nature of following God's commands, using the metaphor of running to illustrate speed and eagerness in obedience. He notes that true obedience is not passive but requires fervent energy and zeal. The phrase "enlarge my heart" suggests an expansion of the inner self—an increase in love and commitment to God's ways.

Albert Barnes

Barnes draws attention to the cause-and-effect relationship in the verse. He suggests that the psalmist’s ability to run in obedience is contingent upon a divine act of heart enlargement. Barnes elucidates that the heart represents the center of will and affection, thus indicating that spiritual growth and obedience are harmoniously intertwined. The enlargement of the heart permits a wider capacity for God’s law, leading to a more profound commitment to obey.

Adam Clarke

Clarke adds depth by exploring the implications of heart enlargement on behavioral transformation. He argues that the heart must be changed or enlarged by divine influence to produce a corresponding change in action. Clarke interprets "running" as a fervent pursuit, implying that when a heart is truly devoted and enlarged, one will not just walk but run towards God’s commandments.

Theological Implications

The verse offers critical theological insights:

• The nature of God's commandments: They are not burdensome but invigorating.
• The role of divine grace: The necessity of God’s intervention to enable true obedience.
• Human responsibility: The active choice to pursue God's commandments requires both intention and divine assistance.

Personal Application

For pastors, students, and theologians, this verse serves as a profound reminder of the relationship between divine grace and human response:

• Spiritual Growth: Reflect on how one's heart can be enlarged to grasp the fullness of God's commandments.
• Active Obedience: Consider how to cultivate a mentality of running towards God’s directives in daily life.
• Dependence on God: Acknowledge the need for God’s assistance in overcoming spiritual lethargy.

Conclusion

Psalms 119:32 speaks powerfully to the believer's journey. It captures a unique blend of desire, divine assistance, and the active pursuit of holiness. By combining insights from Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke, we recognize the beauty and necessity of both divine enablement and human fervor in our spiritual lives. As believers, may we always seek the heart-enlarging grace of God to run eagerly in obedience to His commandments.