Psalms 119:47 - Meaning and Interpretation

Psalms 119:47 states, "And I will delight myself in thy commandments, which I have loved."

This verse is a profound expression of the psalmist's love for God's commandments. The psalmist emphasizes the joy and delight found in obeying the statutes of the Lord. In this commentary, we will explore the verse by drawing insights from public domain commentaries including those by Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke.

Summary of Insights

• Matthew Henry's Commentary:

  Henry emphasizes that true delight in God's commandments springs from a heart that loves God. He notes that it is a mark of a true believer to find happiness in obeying God’s will. The psalmist derives pleasure from God’s law, indicating that a life aligned with divine principles brings joy.

• Albert Barnes' Notes:

  Barnes highlights the relationship between love for God's laws and the resulting joy. The verse suggests that those who contemplate and practice God’s commandments find a source of satisfaction. He observes that the commandments are not seen as burdensome but as a source of delight, reflective of a heart fully devoted to the Lord.

• Adam Clarke's Commentary:

  Clarke discusses the intensity of the psalmist's love for the commandments, suggesting that this love leads to a committed and joyful obedience. He underscores that the commandments serve as a guide, and by loving them, the believer cultivates a deeper relationship with God. Clarke notes that this verse encapsulates the essence of devotion to the Scriptures.

Connections and Cross-References

Psalms 119:47 can be connected to several other Bible verses that discuss the theme of delight in God’s law and the love for His commandments. Here are some key cross-references:

• Psalm 1:2: "But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night."
• John 14:15: "If ye love me, keep my commandments."
• Romans 7:22: "For I delight in the law of God after the inward man."
• Psalm 119:97: "O how love I thy law! it is my meditation all the day."
• Deuteronomy 30:16: "In that I command thee this day to love the Lord thy God, to walk in his ways, and to keep his commandments."
• John 15:10: "If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love."
• Psalms 112:1: "Praise ye the Lord. Blessed is the man that feareth the Lord, that delighteth greatly in his commandments."

Thematic Connections

Thematic connections reveal a consistent message in Scripture regarding the relationship between love for God, obedience to His commandments, and the joy derived from such obedience. By understanding Psalms 119:47 in light of these related verses, we can see the broader biblical narrative emphasizing a believer’s response to divine instruction and guidance.

Conclusion

Psalms 119:47 effectively captures the essence of a believer's relationship with God's commandments. By delighting in them, the psalmist illustrates a heart devoted to the Lord. The interconnectedness of this verse with others enhances our comprehension of biblical teachings on love, obedience, and joy in God’s law. Through cross-referencing, the believer is further encouraged to seek a deeper understanding and application of God’s principles in daily life.

Using Cross-References for Deeper Study

Cross-referencing Bible verses allows believers to identify profound connections within the Scriptures. Tools for Bible cross-referencing, such as concordances and study guides, are excellent resources for exploring these themes further. Engaging in comparative Bible verse analysis strengthens one’s understanding of God’s word and aids in developing a more profound spiritual insight.

Further Study Suggestions

• Utilize a Bible concordance to locate related scriptural themes.
• Engage in cross-reference Bible study methods to enhance comprehension of interconnected verses.
• Explore detailed cross-references between Gospels to have a full view of Jesus' teachings.
• Identify links between the Prophets and Apostolic teachings for a broader understanding of Biblical narrative.
• Reflect on Bible verses that support Psalms 119:47 to deepen your exploration of love for God’s law.