Stanza seven of Psalm 119 deals with suffering, and the emphasis is on finding God’s “comfort” in the midst of it (v 50, 52). The psalmist doesn’t specifically ask to be delivered from his suffering, but he affirms his trust in God’s Word, which has proven to be a genuine source of comfort in the midst of his trials. The only direct prayer in this stanza is an appeal to God to “remember” His words of promise (v 49). Confident He will, the psalmist renews his own commitment to “think” of God’s law (v 52) and “remember” His name (v 55). In other words, he will use his times of suffering to reflect on God’s Word and character, knowing that one purpose of his affliction must be to get to know God better. God’s comfort is so real to the suffering psalmist that he is even breaking into song (v 54). The singing of Christians doesn’t make their troubles go away, but it lifts their spirits and testifies to the goodness of God. The world will not understand the source of such peace and joy. In fact, the world will often mock those who believe the Bible, wondering why anyone would care about “rules from of old” (v 51-53). But the timeless truths of God’s Word are always relevant and never outdated. They provide “hope,” “life,” and “blessing” to all who treasure and keep them (v 49-50, 56). The eighth stanza begins with its key phrase: “The LORD is my portion” (v 57). The goal of a prayerful study of Scripture is not merely to receive God’s comfort, but to know and possess God Himself. When the Israelites took possession of the Promised Land, the priestly tribe of Levi was assigned no particular real estate. They were given something better, for it was said of them, “the LORD God of Israel is their inheritance” (Joshua 13:33). The psalmist knows that those who have God as their portion truly have everything, for nothing will satisfy the human heart like God Himself. Yet this treasure is not acquired without diligent effort. Do I seek God’s favor “with all my heart”? (v 58). Do I ponder the direction of my life, understanding that I must intentionally “turn my feet” to go God’s way? (v 59). Am I quick to obey God’s Word, rather than waiting until a more convenient time? (v 60). Am I determined to remember God’s law whatever the circumstances, or am I prone to “forget,” despite His mercies to me? (v 61), Do I view the Christian life as a sour duty to perform, or do I rejoice in the privilege of knowing God and serving Him? (v 62). Together with friends who share our devotion to Christ, let us journey forward, daily conscious of God’s faithful love (v 63-64). For further meditation: