Division 18 (Tzaddi)
The maintenance of the rights of God in a world of evil.
(vv. 137-138) The psalmist recognizes that God is righteous and all His judgments in accord with Himself. His testimonies—the witness of Himself and His ways—are according to righteousness, and very faithful, in contrast to man’s testimonies which, too often, are given only to deceive.
(vv. 139-141) The recognition of the righteousness of God and the faithfulness of His testimonies brings the God-fearing man into conflict with those who forget God’s words. His earnest zeal in conflict with evil was not simply hatred of evil, but rather love of the truth. He can say of God’s Word, “Thy servant loveth it.” Nevertheless, the one who is zealous for the Word in a scene of evil will be insignificant and despised in the eyes of the world. Even so, the servant of the Lord does not forget His precepts.
(vv. 142-144) He knows the truth will prevail, and that God’s righteousness is everlasting. Enemies may surround him, trouble and anguish may take hold of him, but trial and sorrow will pass away, while the righteousness of God’s testimonies will abide. Therefore, he finds his delight in God’s commandments, and looks to God for guidance into the path that leads to life beyond all trouble and anguish.
(vv. 151-152) As a result of his whole-hearted dependence upon the Lord, he finds, that, though his enemies draw near to do him harm, the Lord is near to preserve, and that His commandments are truth and firmly established forever.