Psalms 119:55 - Meaning and Interpretation

Psalms 119:55 states, "I remember thy name, O Lord, in the night, and keep thy law." This verse forms a part of the longer acrostic poem that constitutes Psalm 119, which is focused on the magnificence of God's Word and the deep relationship the psalmist has with it. The verse illustrates the profound connections that can be drawn between divine remembrance and the observance of God's commandments.

Summary of Insights from Public Domain Commentaries

In examining the deeper meanings behind Psalms 119:55, we can consider insights from notable commentaries:

• Matthew Henry: Henry emphasizes the importance of remembering God's name, particularly in times of distress or darkness. He highlights that this act of remembrance serves as an anchor for the soul during trials, reiterating the psalmist's dedication to God’s law as a result of this remembrance.
• Albert Barnes: Barnes points out that the night symbolizes not just darkness but also times of spiritual dryness or testing. Remembering the name of the Lord signifies recalling His character, faithfulness, and attributes which empowers the believer to maintain adherence to His commandments during trying times.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke notes that keeping God’s law is a natural response to remembering His name. For the psalmist, this reflection on God leads to a life of obedience, as one who recognizes the significance of divine authority will naturally pursue righteousness.

Thematic Connections and Cross-References

Psalms 119:55 not only emphasizes individual remembrance and obedience but also connects with several other Bible verses, illustrating a consistent biblical theme of memory and law. Here are some significant cross-references:

• Psalms 1:2: "But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night." The theme of meditation on God’s law resonates with the psalmist's remembrance in 119:55.
• Proverbs 3:6: "In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths." This verse encourages recognition of God's guidance, linking remembrance and obedience.
• Philippians 4:8: "Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure... think on these things." This reflects the importance of focusing on God's truth, akin to remembering His name.
• Isaiah 26:3: "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee." Here, peace is linked to remembrance and trust in God, paralleling the psalmist's experience.
• James 1:25: "But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein..." This verse emphasizes the blessing associated with practicing the law after remembrance, reinforcing the connection between memory and obedience.
• John 14:15: "If ye love me, keep my commandments." This New Testament echo reinforces the essential truth of loving God and His word as exhibited in the psalmist's commitment.
• Hebrews 10:16: "This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them." This shows a timeless connection between God’s law and our inner remembrance.
• Deuteronomy 6:6-7: "And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: and thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children..." This highlights the directive to remember God's commands throughout life.

Understanding Inter-Biblical Connections

Exploring Psalms 119:55 sheds light on the way the Bible directs believers to remember God and His word, creating a framework for spiritual endurance. This is elaborated in both the Old and New Testaments, where remembrance serves as a call to action—in this case, keeping God's law. The tools for biblical cross-referencing and systematic studies can aid in finding these intricate relationships.

Conclusion: A Call to Remember and Obey

Psalms 119:55 ultimately serves as a reminder that our remembrance of God's name and His promises fuels our obedience to His teachings. The reflective act of remembering God, particularly in the darker moments, not only fortifies our faith but also aligns us closer with His will. For further exploration into cross-referencing biblical texts and understanding the interconnectedness of scriptural themes, utilizing a bible concordance or a comprehensive bible cross-reference guide can be beneficial.