Understanding Psalms 119:85

Bible Verse: Psalms 119:85 - "The proud have digged pits for me, which are not after thy law."

Overview

Psalms 119:85 reflects the psalmist's struggle against adversaries who seek to undermine him. The proud, representing those who are arrogant and defiant against God, have set traps that are contrary to God's law. This highlights a recurring theme in the Psalms: the opposition faced by those who seek to follow the righteousness laid out by the Lord.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry: Henry emphasizes that the proud often work against the faithful, attempting to ensnare them in traps that pursue worldly and ungodly ambitions. The psalmist’s reference to “pits” symbolizes the danger and entrapment that such hostility can pose, but it is contrasted with the faithfulness of God’s law.
• Albert Barnes: Barnes explains that the “pits” mentioned are metaphors for the plots and schemes that those who are rebellious and proud devise against the faithful. He iterates that these actions are not aligned with God’s law, suggesting that true justice will prevail over such wickedness.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke highlights the intensity of the psalmist’s distress as a result of such persecution. He further notes that the psalmist is assured of God's truth and the righteousness of His commands, which serve as his defense against the proud and their traps.

Thematic Connections

This verse creates a bridge connecting various themes in scripture, including:

• The struggle against pride and arrogance: Proverbs 16:18 ("Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.")
• The protection offered by God: Psalms 34:19 ("Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the Lord delivereth him out of them all.")
• The concept of divine justice: Isaiah 54:17 ("No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper...")
• The righteousness of God's law: Romans 7:12 ("Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.")
• The perseverance of the faithful: 2 Timothy 4:18 ("And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work...")
• The nature of wicked schemes: Matthew 5:10 ("Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake...")
• The importance of trust in God’s guidance: Psalms 91:1-2 ("He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.")

Cross-Referencing and Connections

The connections between Bible verses provide a deeper understanding of the themes present in Psalms 119:85. Here are 7 significant cross-references to explore:

1. Psalms 37:12-13: The wicked plot against the just, but the Lord laughs at them—demonstrating God's awareness and ultimate victory over the proud.
2. Psalms 31:18: Calls for the proud to be silenced, emphasizing the contrast between godly humility and sinful arrogance.
3. Psalms 140:5: A direct reference to the traps laid by the wicked, increasing the understanding of the spiritual warfare experienced by the believer.
4. Job 5:13: “He taketh the wise in their own craftiness,” emphasizing that those who plot against the righteous are themselves ensnared by their schemes.
5. Proverbs 11:5: Righteousness of the perfect shall direct his way, while the wicked fall by their own wickedness.
6. 1 Peter 5:5-10: Encourages humility before God, who opposes the proud and gives grace to the humble, reinforcing that God's support shields against enmity.
7. Psalms 27:2: When the wicked, even mine enemies and my foes, come upon me to eat up my flesh, they stumble and fall, portraying the fallibility of the proud.

Applying Cross-Referencing Techniques

Utilizing tools for Bible cross-referencing can enhance our understanding and interpretation of biblical texts. Here are some ways to effectively research and identify connections:

• Engage with a Bible concordance to find related verses.
• Utilize a Bible cross-reference guide in personal studies.
• Practice cross-reference Bible study methods to uncover thematic links.
• Leverage Bible reference resources to contextualize your understanding of various verses.

Conclusion

Psalms 119:85 is a poignant reminder of the spiritual battles faced by believers. As the psalmist navigates the challenges posed by the proud, readers are encouraged to trust in the righteousness of God’s law. By exploring connections to other biblical texts, we deepen our understanding of divine justice and the steadfast support available to those who seek to follow God's commandments.