Division 19 (Koph)
Whole-hearted dependence upon the Lord when surrounded by enemies bent on mischief.
(vv. 145-146) The psalmist expresses his whole-hearted dependence upon the Lord, seeking the consciousness that his prayer is heard. True dependence leads to obedience, therefore, he adds, “I will keep thy statutes.” Further, he desires, not only to be heard, but that his prayer may be answered by a complete deliverance that would set him free to obey the Lord’s testimonies without hindrance.
(vv. 147-148) His dependence is not merely the passive acknowledgment of general indebtedness to God; it is an active, wholehearted dependence that calls upon God, and does so with diligence that leads the believer to rise before the dawn to cry to the Lord. Moreover, his dependence is the outcome of confidence, for he can say, “I hoped in thy word.” The godly man is thus marked by dependence, obedience, and confidence. Further the Word in which his confidence is placed becomes the meditation of His heart, in the quiet of the night watches.
(vv. 149-150) Nevertheless, his whole-hearted diligence is not the ground of his appeal to the Lord; but rather the loving-kindness in the heart of the Lord. To this he looks for the quickening energy of life to sustain him, though his enemies draw near with mischief in their hearts.