A Look at Psalm 119:87

Psalm 119:87 “They almost wiped me from the earth, but I have not forsaken your precepts.”
 

In this verse David expresses how he feels about almost being murdered by his persecutors. However, David’s persecutors failed to realize that they could not take the life of one whose entire life was founded in the precepts of God. Instructions for living can be termed “precepts.” It’s almost as if David is crawling through the desert under a scorching sun and with his last breath is saying, “I’m almost gone Lord, but even still I have not forsaken Your instructions as to how I should live.” He was under an oppressive spirit and yet he obeyed his God. 

How many times have we heard “Christians” say, “I’ve had enough, I know I shouldn’t do this, but I can’t take it any longer.”? Then they do something that goes directly against God’s instructions to them. David said, “I’ve had enough, I can’t take it any longer. However, I will not forsake God’s instructions to me. I’d rather die believing God than forsake His precepts.”
 

In the New Testament, Jesus challenges us to a similar commitment when He responds to the question, “How much should we forgive others. Seven times?” His answer was that we should never stop forgiving others. Even if someone is about to wipe us off the face of the earth, we should still forgive them. David said, “They almost wiped me from the earth.” Jesus was wiped from the earth, by us. Yet, while He hung on the cross, He said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” Even in the face of death Jesus would not forsake His Father’s precepts. 

Now, take some time today to meditate on this verse. Let it sink in and then, ask God to show you where you are quick to forsake His instructions. Then, ask Him to forgive you. 

Continued