Psalms 119

This Psalm is contrived so artificially, that one would think, at first sight, it was made after the foregoing; when God had subdued the rest of David’s enemies, (2 Sam. viii. 10.) and given him leisure for such curious composures. For it is divided into as many parts as there are letters in tho Hebrew alphabet, each part containing eight verses, and every one of those verses beginning with that letter wherewith that part begins. Tho verses, for instance, of thu first part, all begin \vith alpha, or A; and all of the second with beth, or B, &c. And thence this Psalin is called in tho Masora, The great Alphabet; which is aniudicationthat David was now in a very sedate condition, under no extraordinary motions, when he penned this Psalm; but quietly considered things as they were represented to his remembrance. But when we observe how frequently he mentions his affliction, as lying actually upon him, now when ho wrote these meditations, it forces us to conpludo that it was penned during Saul’s persecution: in which thcro were, I suppose, some quiet intervals; (see ver. 54.) either between the time that Saul (having his life given him by David) resolved to persecute him no more, (1 Sam. xxiv.) and his renewed attempts to destroy him, upon the in-r formation the Ziphites again gave him: (1 Sam. xxvi.) or after David’s fresh demonstration of his loyalty to him, before he went to Gath: or while he was in that city, where he had liberty to meditate on the excellence of God’s laws, and the happiness of those that kept them, and the comfort they were to him in his affliction; which he found to bo so sweet and so great, that he begs of God little else, but that he might be more and more in love with them; which were already so much his delight, that he mentions them under one name or other in every verse of this Psalm, none excepted but one, (ver. 122.) or two at the most; (ver. 90.) where he celebrating God’s faithfulness, which relates to the steadfastness of his promise (called in this Psalm his word), it may well be thought to be no exception to that observation. I shall not be so curious as to examine the nice difference which is made by some, between laws, statutes, testimonies, judgments, precepts, &c. because they seem here to be used promiscuously; or if there bo any peculiar meaning in some verses, I shall endeavour to express it plainly in the Paraphrase. Thcodoret hath a conjecture concerning David’s design in this Psalm, (both in his preface to it, and upon ver. 157.) which I shall mention, that the reader may take his choice. David, it is well known, had great varieties in his condition, for he both fled from enemies, and chased them; lived sometimes very melancholy, and again most pleasantly; ran into God’s ways, and stumbled, and rose again to run that good course. Now all these things, saith ho (and it is not improbable), David afterward collected into this one Psalm; " connecting all the prayers which he had made to God at several times, and on several occasions, and putting them together in this admirable meditation, divided into twenty-two parts, which propound one and the same most profitable lesson to all men; and teach them how it is possible to live virtuously in tho worst condition. Nor doth he neglect dogmatical instruction (as he speaks); but adds it to the other: so that this Psalm is suflicicnt to perfect those that study exquisite virtue, and to stir up the diligence of those that are lazy; to comfort those that are sad; to correct the negligent; and, in one word, to afford all manner of medicines for the cure of the various diseases of mankind." And, if it would not have made this book too big, I should have taken the pains to shew the design of every part in an argument be- • fore it. 21a ALEPH. PART I. shall light on all such men as take the boldness to transgress those bounds which thou hast’set them. thou art pleased to fulfil, do not so far abandon me, as to let me be disheartened in asserting their truth and faithfulness (which I am wont to oppose to all the threats of my.enemies): for my whole dependance is on this, that thou wilt not fail me; but pronounce a righteous sentence for me. me thy statutes.) And no other thing do I desire of thee, Lord, whose.kindness is so great that it dispenses its Messing plentifully throughout all the earth, but that thou wilt instruct me still to serve thee as I ought. TETII. PART IX. Vcr. 65, TIiou hast dealt well ivith thy servant, O Lord, according unto thy ivord.] Many other benefits, I will thankfully acknowledge, O Lord, thou hast bestowed upon thy servant: with whom thou hast faithfully kept thy word. Vcr. 66. TeacJt me good judgment and knowledge; for I have believed thy commandments.] And I am not ignorant of thy commandments, which, by thy grace, I have believed to bo the only way to happiness: but still I need thy farther assistance, to give me a delightful taste and thorough’sense of what I know; which I beseech thee add to the rest of the benefits I have received from thee. I take iu every word of thine, is inexpressibly far to bo preferred before all the delights of sense, though never so sweet and luscious. 2F2 KOPII. PART XIX. Vcr. 145. I cried with my lohole heart; hear me, OLord: I will keep thy statutes.’] I have besought thy favour in this sorrowful and distressed condition, with most vehement cries and hearty affection: be pleased to rescue me out of it, O Lord, and 1 promise with the greater care to observe thy statutes. Ver. 14G. I cried unto thee; save me, and I shall keep thy testimonies.] I have made it my constant business to cry unto thee for help; from whom alone I seek it: deliver me, 1 again beseech thee, and I will not fail to make good my promise of observing thy testimonies.

Psalms 119:1

JOLESSED are the uiidefiled in the way, who walk in the law of the Lord. Happy, more happy than can be expressed, arc those men, who do not take the liberty to live as they list; but, making the law of the Lord their rule, order their life in an exact conformity therewith.

Psalms 119:2

Blessed are they that keep his testimonies, and that seek him “with their tvhole heart. The stricter they keep to that rule (wherein he hath testified his will unto us), most heartily studying to please him, entirely devoting themselves to seek his favour in this w r ay alone/ the happier still they are.

Psalms 119:3

They also do no iniquity: they walk in his ivays. Especially when they will not be tempted to do an evil action, though it were to gain the greatest good in this world; but constantly adhere to him in the way which he hath prescribed them.

Psalms 119:4

Thou hast commanded us to keep thy precepts diligently. We arc infinitely beholden to thee, therefore, O Lord, that thou hast obliged us to be so happy, by require Jng us to use our utmost diligence to observe thy precepts (which we ourselves know to be good for us) with all care and exactness.’;:,.,

Psalms 119:5

O that my ways xyere directed to keep thy sta- (Ut$s.~\ Q that I may ever be one of those happy men! I hg.ve no greater wish than this; that all the actions of my life may be ordered and governed according to thy wijl.

Psalms 119:6

Then shall I not be ashamed, when I have respect unto all thy commandments. Then shall I never be disappointed of my hopes, nor blush at the crimes which?ire laid tq my charge; w T hcn my own conscience tells m$, that there is not one of thy commandments but is ever before my eyes* as ^he rule of my actions:

Psalms 119:7

I will praise thee with uprightness of heart, when J shall have learned thy righteous judgments. And is so dear unto me, that nothing can give me such a joy as to have learnt effectually how just and hpw good they all are; for which I will most sincerely thank thee, as the greatest benefit.

Psalms 119:8

I Will keep thy statutes: Ofor$ake me not utterly. Deal with me according to the uprightness of my heart in this resolution; that I will observe even those statutes, for which I see no other reason but only thy will. O do not abandon me too far, (1 Sam. xxvii. 1.) but stick to me, as I purpose to do to thy statutes. BETH. PART II.

Psalms 119:9

Wherewitfy shall a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed thereto according to thy word. But how shall a young man, such j\s I am, (1 Sam. xxvii. 33. 2 Sam. v. 4.) in an age that is prone to evil, be able to do as he resolves? keeping himself sp pure in all his ways, that $hey maintain an exact conformity unto thy word?

Psalms 119:10

With my tvhole heart have I sought thee: O le\ me not wander from thy commandments. First, I implore, with all my soul, thy gracious assistance; beseeching thee to afford me such a measure of it, that for want of those heavenly supplies I may not be drawn aside at any time from thy commandments.

Psalms 119:11

Thy word have I hid in my heart, that I might not sin against thee. Next, I have laid up thy word in my heart, as the most precious treasure; hoping that will be a security tome, and preserve me from offending thee; whose promises are no less comfortable, than thy threatenings are dreadful.

Psalms 119:12

Blessed art thou, O Lord: teach me thy stqtu<te$^ And I know also, that thou’, O I^ord, art kifld, and dost not enyy. thy favours to any of us, but wilt for eyer be praised for thy bounty towards us; arid therefore \ expect t^^ thou wilt hear my prayer,?ind enable me effectually tft learn thy statutes.

Psalms 119:13

With my lips have I declared all the judgment si of thy mouth. On which I have so much set my heart, _th*$ I have not spared to declare to others the gr^at regard I have to every thing which thou hast pronounced just, 05 condemned as unrighteous.

Psalms 119:14

I have rejoiced in the way of thy testimonies, g$ much as in all riches. I can safely say, likewise, that I have taken more satisfaction, now that I am poor, in doing that which thou hast testified to be’ acceptable to thee, than I should in all the wealth of the world, were it heaped on me.

Psalms 119:15

I will mec(itqte in thy preqepts, and have respecf unto thy lyays. I will ruminate also pften on thy precepts (which will be another means, Itrust, to preserve me uiidefiled): and never do any thing, but consider beforehand, how it agrees with the rules, which thou hast prescribed pie.

Psalms 119:16

I will delight myself in thy statutes: I will wof forget thy word. The study of thy statutes (see ver. $.) shall be my Relight; and I will not let slip airy word of thine, but preserve it in faithful remembrance. GIMKL. PA£T III.

Psalms 119:17

Deal bountifidly ivith tl\y servant, thg,t J may live, and keep thy word. Let these reasons move thee to deaj graciously with me, who am devoted to thy service: render to me according to my integrity; an$ let pot my ene 7 mics take away my life, which I intend to employ in doing whatsoever thou hast commanded.

Psalms 119:18

Open thou mine eyes, that I may beholtf ivqudroits things out of thy law. For which end, I beseech the? to illuminate the eyes of my mind, that I rn^y clearly dis r cern the admirable wisdom which discovers itself in thy law.

Psalms 119:19

I am a stranger in the earth; hide not thy cpmmandments from me. I am no better than a stranger in the land, wandering from place to place, (1 Sam. xxiii. 13.) and having no possessions: but dp not let me want th^ knowledge of thy will; and then I shall not think myself destitute of an inheritance.

Psalms 119:20

My soul breaketh for the longing that it hath unto thy judgments at all times. For which my soul longs so vehemently, that I am not more broken with the hardships of my banishment, than with my continual labour ^nd e^Tne^t application of my mind, to have a full understanding of thy judgments.

Psalms 119:21

Thou hast rebuked the proud that are enrseel, \ohk\i doer? from thy commandments. According to which, thou hast glrpady given a severe rebuke tP those haughty men, who, without any respect to right or wrong, persecute and abuse thy servant: (1 Sam. xxiv. 11, &c. xxv. 10. 37.) and the curse which thou hast pronounced. (Deut. xxvii. 2G.)

Psalms 119:22

Remove from vie reproach and contempt; for J have kept thy testimonies.’) And thereby remove from me that disgrace and shame, unto which they expose me as a traitor to my king and country: for I am not guilty of any such wickedness; but carefully observe thy testimonies, ver. 14. (1 Chron. xii. 17.)

Psalms 119:23

Princes also did sit and speak against me: but thy servant did meditate in thy statutes. Though the rulers and principal senators of the kingdom sat in consultation bow to ruin me, declaring me guilty of the greatest crimes; the only care of thy servant hath been to study how to behave himself unblameably according to thy statutes.

Psalms 119:24

Thy testimonies also are my delight, and my conn sellors.* Of which I have not been weary; but make the study of thy testimonies my recreation; and never took advice of any other counsellors, DALETII. PART IV.

Psalms 119:25

My soul cleaveth unto the dust: quicken thou me according to thy word. Consider, therefore, the forlorn condition wherein I lie, struggling for life, and utterly unable to help myself; and be pleased to revive and raise me out of it, according to thy promise, (1 Sam. xvi. 12.).

Psalms 119:26

1 have declared my waijs, and thou heardestme: teach me thy statutes. Thou knowest both my manner of life, and all the dangers to which I am exposed; for I have ever laid them before thee, and found thee ready on all occasions to assist and relieve me: and therefore I hope thou wilt Jiot now leave me; but more perfectly instruct me in my duty, as the surest w r ay to safety.

Psalms 119:27

Make me to understand the way of thy precepts: so shall I talk of thy wondrous works. Give me such a right understanding, that I may ever be preserved in the w r ay of thy precepts: then shall I escape the snares of my enemies; and my ordinary discourse shall be, what wonderful deliverances thou hast given me.

Psalms 119:28

My soul meltethfor heaviness: strengthen thou me according unto thy tvord. Pity my sad condition; and now that my heart sinks under the weight of my affliction, support and strengthen me according to thy promise; that I may never take any undue course for ease and relief.

Psalms 119:29

Remove from me the way of lying; and grant me thy law graciously. Far be all fraud and falsehood from me, whereby my ejiemics contrive to undo me: I desire not to learn any of their wicked arts; but only beseech thee to give me grace to observe thy laws constantly.

Psalms 119:30

I have chosen the way of truth: thy judgments have I laid before me.* That is the way I have resolved upon, to deal truly and sincerely; squaring all my actions according to thy judgments; which I have laid before me as the most equal rule of my life.

Psalms 119:31

I have stuck unto thy testimonies: O Lord, put pie not to sjiame. And hitherto 1 have kept my resolution, and never started from thy testimonies: preserve mc, good Lord, that I may not hereafter disgrace myself, by doing any thing contrary to them; nor be disappointed of my hope, by falling into the hands of those that seek my ruin.

Psalms 119:32

I will run the way of thy commandments, when thou shall enlarge my heart. * And when thou shalt have filled ray heart with joy, by freeing mc from those grievous straits, I will do thee better service; and be more forward cheerfully to execute all thy commandments. he. part v.

Psalms 119:33

Teach me, O Lord, the tvay of thy statutes, and J shall keep it unto the end. Instruct mc, therefore, good Lord, more and more in the right way of serving thee; and I will shew myself most thankful for it, by keeping exactly to it all the days of my life.

Psalms 119:34

Give me understanding, and I shall keep thy law; yea, I shall observe it with my whole heart. Illuminate my mind to understand the excellence of thy law: and then I shall not only observe it, but set myself to do it with a watchful, impartial, and most affectionate, diligence.

Psalms 119:35

Make me to go in the path of thy commandments; for therein do I delight. Be thou my leader and guide, that I may not stray from the path of thy commandments, wherein I find the greatest satisfaction.

Psalms 119:36

Incline my heart unto thy testimonies, and not to covet outness.”. Incline my heart always to seek its contentment in thy testimonies: and suffer it not to be drawn away by the desire of worldly goods, which, having no measure, is never satisfied.

Psalms 119:37

Turn away mine eyes from beholding vanity; and quicken thou me in thy way. Help me to overlook those empty honours and fading beauties which we are apt to behold with too much admiration, and with lively affections and vigorous endeavours, to persist in the pursuit of thy favour, in the way thou hast set before me.

Psalms 119:38

Establish thy word unto thy servant, who is devoted to thy fear. And at last make good thy promise to thy servant, (2 Sam. v. 2.) who fears to do any thing to offend thee, though thereby he might win a crown.

Psalms 119:39

Turn away my reproach which I fear: for thy judgments are good. Turn from me that disgrace, of which I cannot but be sometime afraid, (1 Sam. xxvii. 1.) and must certainly suffer, if I fall into my enemies’ hands; for thou wilt proceed, I know, according to thy own judgments; which are all equitable, merciful, and gracious.'

Psalms 119:40

Behold, I have longed after thy precepts; quicken me in thy righteousness. I appeal to thee, whether I have not a great zeal for thy precepts; unto which I desire above all things to be conformed: let me not perish therefore in these troubles; but in much mercy revive me, according to thy faithful promise. vau. part yi,

Psalms 119:41

Let thy mercies come also unto me, O Lord; even thy salvation, according to thy tvord. To those infinite mercies of thine, which moved thee to make me such gracious promises, I betake myself: and beseech thee to let mc feel the happy effects of both in my deliveranco f

Psalms 119:42

So shall I have wherewith to answer him that reproacheth me: for I trust in thy word. So shall I be able to put to silence those that rcprpacrnnc for my confidenco in thee: which they call a vain presumption; but is an humble reliance on thy own gracious promises to inc.

Psalms 119:43

And take not the word of tpith utterly out of my mouth; for J have hoped in thy judgments. Which till

Psalms 119:44

So shall I keep’thy Jato continually for ever and ever. And I for my part promise, when thou shalt be so gracious to me, not to suffer myself to grow more negligent in thy service: but to be more careful than ever in the observance of thy laws, to the very end of my days.

Psalms 119:45

And I ivill walk at liberty: for I seek thy precepts. For then I shall have no such encumbrances on me, as I now have in these straits and difficulties; from which when thou freest, me, I will do my duty with the greater.cheerfulness and joy: for it is not liberty, no, nor a kingdom, that I seek, so much as better advantages to fulfil thy precepts.

Psalms 119:46

I will speak of thy testimonies also before kings, and ivill not be ashamed. Which I will not be ashamed to justify before the greatest persons in the world, to be the most excellent rule of life, and the best testimony of thy love to us: and will do it with such reasons, that they shall never be able to disprove me.

Psalms 119:47

And I ivill delight myself in thy commandments, which I have loved. Nor will I confute myself, by leading a voluptuous life; when I have liberty to do as I list: but’as I have hitherto preferred thy commandments before all other things, so then will I take the highest pleasure in them:

Psalms 119:48

My hands also will I lift up unto thy commandments, which I have loved; and I will meditate in thy statutes. Not only in their study; but shew the truth of my love to them, by a diligent and zealous practice of them: which shall be the end of my meditation in thenu. ZAIN. PART Tir.

Psalms 119:49

Remember the word unto thy servant, upon which thou hast caused meto hope. . Be pleased therefore, in due time, to perform the promise, which thou hast long ago made to thy servant, (2 Sam. v. 2.) and when. I thought of no such thing, given mc an assured hope of it, (ISam. xvi.

Psalms 119:50

This is my comfort in my affliction: for thy word hath quickened pie. Which as it hath been the occasion of many and great troubles to me, so hath comforted me under them alL: and, even when I despaired of safety,, revived my spirit, and restored my courage to life again..

Psalms 119:51

The proud have had me greatly in derision; yet have I not declined from thy law. J Though my insulting enemies mocked exceedingly at my hope, and, in the pride of their hearts, attempted by the most unjust means to destroy me; it never moved me to imitate them, by taking any unlawful method for my preservation.

Psalms 119:52

I remembered thy judgments of old, OLord; and have comforted myself. But I called to mind> O Lord, how, in all foregoing ages, thou hast suffered good men to fall into great calamities;, thereby to render them, at last, the more illustrious: and with this consideration also I comforted myself. Ver. 53*. Horror hath taken hold upon me, because of the wicked that forsake thy law.\ I have been seized,, indeed,, sometime with a horrible fear, when I thought what sort of men were my persecutors: who stuck at nothing which would serve their ends; having no regard to right or wrong J

Psalms 119:54

Ttiy statutes have been my songs in the house of my pilgrimage. Yet in all my wanderings up and down^ (1 Sam. xxii. 1, 2. 5. xxiii. 13.) I never tarried long in any place, but I passed the time delightfully, in composing, some such song as this in praise of thy statutes.

Psalms 119:55

I have remembered thy name, O Lord, in the night, and have kept thy law. When others were asleep, I was calling to mind how good, how powerful, and how faithful, thou art: and resolving with myself still to observe thy laws. Ver. 5G. This I had, because I kept thy precepts.] Which make those so happy that obey them, that I ascribe this sweet composure of mind, and cheerfulness of spirit, under all my grievous afflictions, to my strict observance of them ^ CHEfH. PART Vllf.

Psalms 119:57

TJiou art my portion, O Lord: I have said that I would keep thy words. I have no possessions in this; w T orld, (1 Sam.xxvi. 19.) which I see others greedily sharing among them: but I do not think myself poor, as long as I have an interest in thy love, and in thy promises, O Lord; whose words I have resolved to keep as the greatest treasure..

Psalms 119:58

I entreated thy favour with my’ whole heart: be’ merciful unto me according to thy word. For there is no-^ thing comparable to thy favour; which I have besought with the heartiest affection, and - the most importunate’ prayers: and do again beseech thee to deal mercifully with me, according to thy repeated promises unto me.

Psalms 119:59

I thought on my ways, and turned my feet unto 1 thy testimonies. For upon serious deliberation what course of life it was best to take, I rejected all other, which, with; specious shows of worldly advantages would have seduced me, and determined to be guided wholly by thy testimonies.

Psalms 119:60

I made haste, and delayed not to keep thy com– mandments. And being thus resolved, I admitted no farther debate about it; but instantly, without any delay, set myself to the strict observance of thy commandments. Ver. Gl. The bands of the wicked have robbed me: but I have not forgotten thy taw.] Nor hath any thing been; able to remove me from this resolution; but though I have* been beset with troops of wicked men, who stripped me of all I had, (1 Sam. xxiii. 26.) it did not make me forget my duty; nor put me upon any unlawful means of being revenged of them, (xxiv. 6, 7.)

Psalms 119:62

At midnight I will rise to give thanks unto thee, because of thy righteous judgments.* But have blessed thee both night and day, and arose at midnight to give thee thanks for those just and good laws, which thou hast taught me to observe.

Psalms 119:63

I am a companion of alt tliem that fear thee,- and of them that keep thy precepts. Associating myself willingly with none but such as fear to offend thee, and do religiously observe thy precepts: who are all’ truly dear* unto me.

Psalms 119:64

The earth, O Lord,,is full of tliy mercy; teacfc

Psalms 119:67

Before I was afflicted Iwint astray; but now have I kept thy word. And if it be necessary for this end, to deprive me still of all other delights, I submit unto it: for I must confess I committed many errors before I was thus afflicted; which since I have corrected, and grown tnore strictly observant of thy word.

Psalms 119:68

Thou art good, and doest good: teach me thy statutes. Thou art in thy own nature kind and good; and nothing else can proceed from thee, who designest our good even when thou afflictest us: take what methods thou plcasest with me -/only teach me effectually to do as thou wouldest have me. Vcr. 69. The proud have forged a He against me: but I will keep thy precepts with my whole heart.] They that disdain’ to be tied to the common and plain rules of honesty, have taken a great deal of pains to invent a lie against me: (1 Sam. xxiv. 9.) but as I am hitherto conscious of no such guilt, so I Will always confute them by an impartial and most hearty observance of thy precepts.

Psalms 119:70

Their heart is as fat as grease: bid I delight in thy law. Which gives me infinitely greater satisfaction in a poor starved condition, than all the dull delights of sense, which they enjoy, in the fullest plenty of worldly prosperity.

Psalms 119:71

It is good for me that I have been afflicted; that 1 might learn thy statutes. This they stupidly’imagine is the only happiness; but I can truly say, it was more happy for me that I was afflicted: for thereby I learnt to apply myself more seriously to thy statutes.

Psalms 119:72

Tlie law of thy mouth js better unto me than thousands of gold and silver. Whereby thy will is declared unto us by a voice from heaven, (Exod. xx. 1.) which I prefer before all the gold and silver in the kingdom. JOD. PART X.

Psalms 119:73

77<y hands have made vie, and fashioned me: give me understanding, that I may learn thy commandments. Desert me-not then, who am thine own workmanship; that neither hatli nor hopeth for any thing but from thy almighty power: and desires above all things to comprehend fully what thy will is, that he may obey it.

Psalms 119:74

They that fear thee will be glad when they see me; because I have hoped in thy vjord. It will be a very great comfort aud encouragement to all good men, wheh they see me delivered out of all these trdubles: for thereby they will be confirmed in their belief of thy faithfulness to thy promises; on which it will appear I have not vainly depended, though I stayed long for the performance.

Psalms 119:75

I know, O Lord, that thy judgments are right, and that thou hi faithfulness hast afflicted me. And I am satisfied, O Lord, that while thou makestme wait for the performance, thou docst nothing contrary to thy justice, or to thy fidelity: but that all these cross dispensations of thy providence, in the heavy afflictions which have befallen ine, are perfectly righteous: and will only make thy truth and faithfulness, at last, the more illustrious.

Psalms 119:76

Let, I pray thee, thy merciful kindness be for my comfort, according to thy word tinto thy servant. hasten that happy time; when I shall sec thy loving-kindness turning this disconsolate into a more comfortable condition: according to the promises which thou hast made unto thy servant, (I Sam. xvi. 12, 13.)

Psalms 119:77

Let thy tender mercies come unto me, that I may live: for thy law is my delight. Let me feel the speedy effects of thy compassionate mercy; rescuing me from those that seek my life, and raising me out of this forlorn estate, (1 Sam. xxiv. 14.) For howsoever I am represented, my highest satisfaction is in obedience to thy law.

Psalms 119:78

Let the proud be ashamed; for they dealt perversely with me without a cause: but I will meditate in thy precepts. Confound all those proud contemners of it, who, making no conscience of what they say, have oppressed and overthrown me with lies and calumnies; as if I studied to disturb the kingdom, when my only study is to observe thy precepts.

Psalms 119:79

Let those that fear thee turn unto me, and those that Iiave known thy testimonies. Let all pious men, who have a due regard to thy testimonies, be convinced of this; and be no longer abused by these slanders; but turn to my side, and become my friends.

Psalms 119:80

Let my heart be sound in thy statutes, that I be not ashamed. And in order to it preserve me so blameless before thee, in such integrity of heart as well as life, that t toiay not be ashamed of the hope I have, that thou and all good men will take my part. caph. Part xi.;

Psalms 119:81

My soul faint eth for thy salvation; but I hope in thy word. For which blessing I have now T attended so many years, that I am ready sometime to faint away with vehement desire to see thy long-expected promise fulfilled, of deliverance from all my enemies. Vcr. 82. Mine eyes fail for thy word, saying, When wilt thou comfort me?] That joyful sight I have looked for, till I am in danger to be weary with expectation; saying, When will the time come of my deliverance from this disconsolate condition?

Psalms 119:83

For I am become like a bottle in the smoke; yet I do not forget thy statutes. I hope it will not be long delayed; for I am worn away, and my skin (like an empty leathern bag, that hath hung a great while in the smoke) is shrivelled up with toil and grief; and yet I havo never taken ahy unlawful course to rid myself of all this misery.

Psalms 119:84

How many are the days of thy servant? when wilt thou execute judgment on them that persecute me?’) I leave that to thee, O Lord; beseeching thee to consider how ray days spend apace in trouble and sorrow: which force me to sigh and say, How long must thy poor servant still lie in this calamitous condition? when wilt thOu do me right against my persecutors?

Psalms 119:85

The proud have digged pits for me, which are not after thy law. Who proudly contrive by all manner of frauds and treachery to take away my life, directly contrary to thy law; to which they are as injurious as unto me.

Psalms 119:86

All thy commandments are faithful: they persecute me wrongfully; help thou me. For all thy commandments teach ns to be just and true; being as faithful, as those men arc false and perfidious: therefore make good thy promises to me; and deliver me from those who persecute me with lies and forgeries.

Psalms 119:87

They had almost consumed me upon earth: but I forsook not thy precepts. Which they have employed so successfully, that I escaped very hardly with my life, when I was in the land of Judah; (1 Sam. xxiiu 26.) and yet, for all this, I stuck to thy precepts; and would not take away the life of him that sought mine, when I could have easily done it, (xxiv. 6, 7.)

Psalms 119:88

Quicken me after thy loving-kindness; so shall I keep the testimony of thy mouth. Deal as kindly with rnc, O Lord; and not only spare my life, but raise me out of this forlorn estate, wherein I lie, like a man that is dead; (1 Sam. xxiv. 14.) and I will endeavour the more carefully to observe the testimonies which thou hast solemnly (ver. 72.) given us in charge. LAMED. PART XII.

Psalms 119:89

For ever, O Lord, thy word is settled in heaven. Thou art eternal, O Lord, and changest not; and thy promises are like thyself, fixed and settled in the heavens; which are a lively emblem of their constancy, and unvariable truth.

Psalms 119:90

Thy faithfulness is unto all generations: thou hast established the earth, and it abideth. One generation goes, and another comes; but thy fidelity is still the same to all: and alters no more than the earth; which thou hast firmly and immoveably established, while all those creatures that live upon it pass away and perish.

Psalms 119:91

TJiey continue this day according to thine ordinances: for all are thy servants. All things remain to this day in the order at first appointed; and neveT vary from the laws which thou hast set them: for they are entirely subject to thy will and pleasure,

Psalms 119:92

Unless thy law had been my delights, I should tfien have perished in mine affliction. Which was a most comfortable meditation in ray afflicted condition: whenjny heart would have failed me, and I should have been undone; if thy laws (which stand as fast as heaven and earth) had not given uie constant consolation.

Psalms 119:93

1 will never forget thy precepts: for with them thou hast quickened me. I will never, therefore, be guilty of neglecting thy precepts: which have revived me (by thy faithful promises thou hast annexed to the observance of them), when I looked upon myself as a dead man, that VOL. MI. could not escape the hands of those that sought to destroy me.

Psalms 119:94

I am thine, save me: for I have sought thy precepts. And be thou pleased still to deliver me from falling into their hands: for though they have driven me from thy inheritance, (1 Sam. xxvi. 19.) I still continue thine, and serve no other God; but have diligently inquired, in my greatest dangers, what would be most pleasing to thee, as most advantageous to myself.

Psalms 119:95

Tlie xoicked have waited for me to destroy me: but I will consider thy testimonies. Those wicked men, who are combined to destroy me, have long watched for an opportunity which they confidently expect to meet withal: but it doth not discourage my study of thy testimonies, as the best defence against their bloody attempts.'

Psalms 119:96

/ have seen an end of all perfection, but thy commandment is exceeding broad. For had I greater forces than my enemies, alas! I never yet saw any thing so complete, but, as it had its bounds and limits, so it is exceeding frail; and when it is arrived at perfection, comes to a speedy end; whereas/the wisdom which, thou hast revealed to us hath infinite satisfaction in it, durable and lasting satisfaction; which_ never fails those that depend upon it. MEM. TART XIII.

Psalms 119:97

O how love I thy law! it is my meditation all the day. It is impossible to express the love I have to thy law: which entertains my meditation, or enables me to entertain others, with admirable variety, whole days together.

Psalms 119:98

Thou, through thy commandments, hast made me wiser than mine enemies: for they are ever with me. Mine enemies arevery crafty, and use many artifices to destroy me: but, by observing thy commandments, I have defeated all their subtle devices, and confounded them, even by refusing (because thy commandments, which are ever before my eyes, restrain me), to be avenged on them, (1 Sam. xxiv. 17, 18, &c. xxvi. 21.)

Psalms 119:99

I have more understanding than all my teachers: for thy testimonies are my meditation. I have outstripped all the doctors of the law, of whom I formerly learnt; and understand more perfectly than they, the best means of securing myself: because my mind is still employed in thy testimonies, as the rule of all my designs and undertakings.

Psalms 119:100

1 understand more than the ancients; because I keep thy precepts. Though I am but young, yet have I more understanding in things, than the judges and grave privy-councillors; because my maxim is, strictly to observe thy precepts. *

Psalms 119:101

I have refrained my feet from every evil way, that I inight keep thy ivord. Whatsoever advantage it promised me, I have never proceeded in any evil course to obtain my end: but refused the seeming gain; that I might not offend against thy word.

Psalms 119:102

I have not departed fromthy judgments: for thou hast taught me. My respect to thee hath hindered me from doing any injury unto others: because I know thou art the author of those laws which forbid it; and in the observance of them, I have learnt, consists my happiness.

Psalms 119:103

How sweet are thy words unto my taste! yea, sweeter than honey to my mouth!. And a happiness it is, I feel already, incomparably above all other: the pleasure 2F

Psalms 119:104

Through thy precepts I get understanding: therefore J hate every fake way J. And by thy precepts I am so fully instructed how to behave myself, that I need not to betake myself to any dishonest ways, which I utterly abhor. nun. part xiv.

Psalms 119:105

Tliy word is a lamp unto my feet f and a light unto my path. Thy word is my only guide; whose directions I follow in all the dark and difficult passages of ray life.

Psalms 119:106

J have sworn, and will perform it, that I will keep thy righteous judgments. I have solemnly resolved, and bound myself by the most sacred ties, which I will never break, but do now confirm, that I will carefully observe thy decrees, which I find to be both just and good.

Psalms 119:107

I am afflicted very much: quicken me, O Lord, according unto thy word. I have suffered very much upon that account, and am still sorely afflicted; but I comfort myself, O Lord, with thy promise, according to which I beseech thee to deliver me from those that seek to destroy me; and raise me out of this forlorn condition, wherein I can scarce be said to live.

Psalms 119:108

Accept, I beseech thee, the free-willofferings of my mouth, O Lord, and teach me thy judgments. I have no other sacrifices that I am able in this exile to offer to thee, but these of prayer, and thankful acknowledgments, and vows of sincere and cheerful obedience; with which I do most freely and heartily present thee, O Lord: beseeching thee to teach me still more effectually thy judgments; that I may never fail to be conformed to thy will.

Psalms 119:109

My soul is continually in my hand: yet do I not forget thy law. To which I have hitherto so closely adhered, that though I go in continual danger of my life, (Judg. xii, 3.) it doth not move me in the least (whatsoever shifts I am forced to make) to save myself by forsaking thy law.

Psalms 119:110

lite wicked have laid a snare for me: yet I erred not from thy precepts. They that make no conscience of their actions, have contrived a subtle plot to ruin me; but I have never stepped out of the way of thy precepts, to avoid the snares they have laid for me.

Psalms 119:111

Thy testimonies have I taken as a heritage for ever: for they are the rejoiciyig of my heart. I had rather always continue as poor as I am, than do any thing against thy testimonies; which I hold to’ be my ehiefest good and surest possession: out of which none can expel me; and which always yield me that inward satisfaction and joy which none can take from me.

Psalms 119:112

I have inclined mine heart to perform thy statutes always, even unto the end. This infinitely outweighs all other considerations; and hath inclined my heart to resolve to do always as thou biddest ine (whatsoever I may lose by it), to the very end of my days. SAMECH. PART XV. Ver.’ll3. J hate vain tlioughts: but thy law do I love.] I hate all double-dealing, and crafty devices, that are not warranted by thy law: to which 1 have resolved to stick with hearty affection. Ver. J 14. TJiou art my hiding-place and my shield: I hope in thy word.] In that way I will trust to thee for safety and protection: having a firm hope that thou wilt be as good unto me as thy word.

Psalms 119:115

Depart from me, ye evil-doers: for I will keep the commandments of my God. Do not persuade me any longer, O ye evil-doers, to join with you; but get you gone from me: for I will follow none of your counsels; but strictly observe the commandments of my God, who hath hitherto most graciously delivered me.

Psalms 119:116

Uphold me according unto thy word, tlvat I may live: and let me not be ashamed of my hope. And on whom I still depend, that thou wilt support me, O Lord, according to thy promise, against all the assaults of my enemies that seek my life: and not let me be ashamed of the hope and expectation I have, that thou wilt defend and deliver me.

Psalms 119:117

Hold thou me up, and J shall be safe: and I will have respect unto thy statutes continually. Be thou my support in this weak condition, I humbly again beseech thee: and then they shall not be able to throw me down; but in safety and security I shall make thy statutes my perpetual study.

Psalms 119:118

TIwu hast trodden down all them that err from thy statutes: for their deceit is falsehood. They shall fall to the ground, and not I; for thou art wont, I observe, to abase and lay as low as the mire in the streets all those that presume to go out of the plain way of thy statutes; for all their crafty tricks and crooked arts, on which they rely, at last prove false unto them and deceive them.

Psalms 119:119

Thou puttest away all the wicked of the earth like dross: therefore I love thy testimonies. Thou castest all such wicked men out of the land like dross, that is good for nothing, which makes me addict myself, with the greater love, unto thy testimonies. Ver- 120. My jlesh trembteth for fear of thee; and J am afraid of thy judgments.] Trembling all over with fear lest I should by any disobedience to thee incur thy severe displeasure; and dreading above all things thy judgments: which are threatened in the law, and which I see executed upon the contemners of it. A1N. PART XVI.

Psalms 119:121

I have done judgment and justice: leave me not to mine oppressors. This pious fear laid such a restraint upon me, that I never did any wrong to them, nor so much as dealt hardly with them, that now injure me: therefore suffer me not to fall into the hands of those who oppress me with their calumnies.

Psalms 119:122

Be surety to thy servant for good; let not the proud oppress me. Their pride is great, and, having power equal to their malice, thoy hope to prevail over me; but do thou graciously undertake my protection, and be my security against the mischief they design me; that instead of being my ruin, their calumnies may turn to my greater good and advantage.

Psalms 119:123

Mine eyes fail for thy salvation, and for the word of thy righteousness. I believe they will; but I have Digitized by microsoft ® PSALM CXIX.] THE BOOK OF PSALMS. looked so long for that happy time, when thou wilt deliver me (and yet am still in apparent danger to fall into the hands of my enemies), that I am almost tired with expectanco of thy promise; though I know it is faithful and true, and shall certainly be performed.

Psalms 119:124

Deal with thy servant according unto thy mercy, and teach me thy statutes. Pity my infirmity, and in much mercy send speedy relief unto thy servant; and in the mean time instruct me more perfectly in thy statutes;, that I may make the better use of that deliverance.

Psalms 119:125

I am thy servant; give me understanding, that I may know thy testimonies. I am devoted to thy service, and designed by thee to a high employment: enlighten my understanding therefore, that I may fully know my duty.

Psalms 119:126

It is time for thee, Lord, to work; for they have made void thy law. For now is the time to do all I can for the Lord (who may be pleased then to lake this opportunity to perform his promise), when wicked men not only transgress, but are so profane that they reject, and would wholly lay aside, thy law.

Psalms 119:127

Therefore I love thy commandments above gold, yea, above fine gold. This inflames my zeal, and heightens my love to thy commandments, which I value far more than all the riches in the world; which shall not tempt me to violate one of them, or suffer them, if I can help it, to be contemned by others.

Psalms 119:128

Therefore I esteem all thy precepts concerning all things to be right; and I hate every false way. For the more I consider them, the more I approve every one of them (as the cxactest and best rule whereby I square all my actions), and abhor all those base and dishonest ways whereby others study to advance themselves to riches and honours. P£. PART XVII.

Psalms 119:129

Tliy testimonies are wonderful: therefore doth my soul keep them. I cannot sufficiently admire and extol the excellent wisdom also of thy laws, whereby thou hast testified thy will unto us; which makes me the more careful faithfully to observe them..

Psalms 119:130

The entrance of thy words giveth light: it ghveth understanding unto the simple. When a man doth but begin to be acquainted with thy word, he finds his mind marvellously enlightened with such clear and useful knowledge, as directs the most simple people how to live happy.

Psalms 119:131

J opened my mouth, and panted: for I longed for thy commandments. Which hath excited.me to the most eager pursuit of this most excellent wisdom; for I longed to have a perfect understanding of thy commandments, which at first sight afford such abundant satisfaction.

Psalms 119:132

Look thou upon me, and be merciful unto me, as thou used to do unto those that love thy name. Favour my desires, I most humbly beseech thee; and vouchsafe me the same grace which thou art wont to bestow on those that sincerely love thee, and study, as I do, thy honour and glory. •

Psalms 119:133

Order my steps in thy word: and let not any iniquity have dominion over me. And first of all enable me to walk steadily, according to the rule of thy word, that I may not be a slave to any sin whatsoever.

Psalms 119:134

Deliver me from the oppression of man: so will I keep thy precepts. And then deliver me from the oppression of him (1 Sam. xxvi. 24.) who unjustly seeks to destroy me; that I may have the greater liberty to study and observe thy precepts.

Psalms 119:135

Make thy face to shine upon thy servant; and teach me thy statutes. Put an end to the troubles of tby servant, who is devoted to thy obedience; and for this reason, above all others, desires to see better days, that he may have better opportunities to learn thy statutes. Ver. 13G. Rivers of waters run down mine eyes, because they keep not thy law J] Which it is a very great grief to me, to behold so universally neglected; and hath cost me many a tear, when I consider, not merely the persecution which 1 suffer, but how thereby my enemies violate thy law. TZADDI. PART XVIII.

Psalms 119:137

Righteous art thou, O Lord, and upright are thy judgments. I leave it to thee, O Lord, to redress these evils; who art both just and good, and governest all things with an unerring equity.

Psalms 119:138

Thy testimonies that thou hast commanded are righteous and very faithful. For as all the laws thou hast given us are perfectly righteous; so thou dost exactly and most faithfully fulfil all the promises or threatenings which thou hast made to the observers, or against the breakers, of them.

Psalms 119:139

My zeal hath consumed me; because mine enemies have forgotten thy words. The consideration of which moves my indignation to such a degree, that I am tormented to see my enemies so forgetful of their own interest, as not to regard thy words.

Psalms 119:140

Thy word is very pure: therefore thy servant loveth it. Which I know to be infallibly true, and perfectly free from all falsehood and deceit: which is the reason of that ardent affection thy servant hath unto them.

Psalms 119:141

lam small and despised; yet do not I forget thy precepts. Which will not suffer me, though I am mean and contemptible in the eyes of my enemies (who are honourable and mighty), to be guilty of neglecting any of thy precepts.

Psalms 119:142

Thy righteousness is an everlasting righteousness, and thy law is the truth. For still I think with myself, that thy justice, goodness, and fidelity, are unchangeable; and whatsoever thou hast said in thy law is the very truth; upon which we may certainly depend, and never be deceived.

Psalms 119:143

Trouble and anguish have taken hold on me; yet thy commandments are my delights. And therefore, though I am unexpectedly (1 Sam. xx. 3.) involved in very sore straits and difficulties, yet 1 do not forsake, but find great consolation in the study of thy commandments.

Psalms 119:144

The righteousness of thy testimonies is everlasting: give me understanding, and I shall HveJ. Especially in this consideration, (which comes often into my mind, ver. 142.) that all the declarations thou hast made of thy will to us are so just and true, that they will never fail our expectation: O give me wisdom to order my life according to them! and then it shall not be in the power of ray enemies to make me miserable.

Psalms 119:147

I prevented the dawiung of the morning, and cried: 1 hoped in thy word.* I have sent up early cries unto thee, before the morning-light appeared: constantly expecting the performance of thy promise to me.

Psalms 119:148

Mine eyes prevent the night-watches, that I might meditate in thy word. Nor have I been less forward in the study of my duty, than in the imploring of thy. mercy; but have awaked before all the watches were set, to meditate in thy word.

Psalms 119:149

Hear my voice, according unto thy lovingkindness: O Lord, quicken me according to thy judgment. Let my prayer prevail with thee, O Lord, for that favour and kindness which I have oft experienced; and preserve my life, as thou hast done hitherto, by such means as thou judgest best for me.

Psalms 119:150

Tfiey draw nigh that follow after mischief: they are far from thy law. I am closely beset, thou seest, and in danger to be seized (1 Sam. xxiii. 26.) by those who, as they persecute me, and seek ray ruin, so care not by what wicked arts they compass their design: for they have no regard at all to thy law.

Psalms 119:151

Thou art near, OLord: and all thy commandments are truth. My only comfort is, that they cannot approach so near to hurt me, as thou, O Lord, art to defend and preserve me: and that all thy promises annexed to thy commandments (still I think of that, ver. 142.) shall faithfully be fulfilled.

Psalms 119:152

Concerning thy testimonies, I have known of old that thou hast founded them for ever. This hath ever been my support, long before 1 fell into these troubles; that whatsoever thou hast testified to be thy will and pleasure, is firm and steadfast, and shall never fail those that depend upon it, (ver. 144.) RKSH. PART XX.

Psalms 119:153

Consider mine affliction, and deliverme; for I do not forget thy law. Shew then that thou dost not neglect me; but art as mindful of me, as 1 am of thy law in this afflicted condition, out of which 1 beseech thee to deliver me; for none of the evils that have befallen me have made me forget my duty to thee.

Psalms 119:154

Plead thou my cause, and deliver me: quicken me according to thy word. I appeal to thee, whether I have not a righteous cause; beseeching thee to do me justice upon mine enemies, (1 Sam. xxiv. 15.) and rescue me from their persecutions: for I am in great danger of perishing, but depend upon thy promise for my safety.

Psalms 119:155

Salvation is far from the wicked: for they seek Tpsalm cxrx, not thy statutes. Far bo it from thee to afford any help to the wicked: for they have no regard to thy statutes; but seek only how they may satisfy their own lewd and cruel desires. Ver. 15G. Great are thy tender mercies, OLord: quicken me according to thy judgments.] To which I oppose the bowels of thy compassion, O Lord, whose tender mercies are many and great: and will preserve my life, 1 hope, according to thy wonted care over mc, and kindness to me, (ver. 149.)

Psalms 119:157

Many are my persecutors, and mine enemies; yet do I not decline from thy testimonies. I am not discouraged, either by the number or the strength (which are both very great) of those that persecute me with a deadly enmity: which doth not move me in the least to depart from thy testimonies, (Lev. xix. 18.) by seeking their destruction as they do mine, (1 Sam. xxiv. xxvi.)

Psalms 119:158

J beheld the transgressors, and was grieved; because they kept not thy word. It only provokes my sorrow, to see that there is no faith, nor truth, nor gratitude, in them, (1 Sam. xxiv. 17, &c. xxvi. 2.) and troubles me beyond measure, that they have no regard to what thou commandest or forbiddest.

Psalms 119:159

Consider how I love thy precepts: quicken me, Lord, according to thy loving-kindness. Such is the love 1 have to thy precepts; which, I beseech thee, let the world see thou dost observe: and both preserve my life, O Lord, and, according to the exceeding greatness of thy goodness, deliver me out of this sad condition. Ver. 1G0. Thy word is true from the beginning: and every one of thy righteous judgments endurethfor ever.] As I doubt not thou wilt; for none of thy promises have ever failed: but the very first of them, which thou madest to our forefather Abraham, (Gen. xii. 2.) hath been faithfully fulfilled; and so shall every thing else, which thou hast resolved and declared to be thy will, be punctually performed to the end of the world. SCIIIN. PART XXI.

Psalms 119:161

Princes have persecuted me without a cause: bid my heart standeth in awe of thy word-. The rulers and prime counsellors of the kingdom persecute me, for pretended crimes; of which as I am not guilty, so F do not fear so much what they can do against me, as lest I should do any thing in my own vindication against thy word, (1 Sam. xxiv. G. xxvi. 9.) Ver. 1G2. I rejoice at thy v;ord, as one thatfindeth great spoil.] I would not purchase my liberty, my peace, or the honour they enjoy, by any unlawful actions: for I take far more delight in doing thy will, and in what thou hast promised to do for me, than in the completest victory over all my enemies.

Psalms 119:163

I hate and abhor lying: but thy law do I love. I hate all fraud and deceit; even to the degree of abhorrence and abomination: butmost heartilylove these honest courses to which thy law directs me. Ver. 1G4. Seven times a day do I praise thee, because of thy righteous judgments.] It is the subject of my perpetual thanks and praise, that I have the happiness to he ac-’. quainted with the justice and goodness of those laws, whereby thou governest us.

Psalms 119:165

Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them. The observance of which gives such inward satisfaction, and brings so many and great blessings to those who truly love them, that they take all things which befal them in good part; and nothing will tempt them to turn aside and leave those virtuous paths wherein they lead them.

Psalms 119:166

Lord, I have hoped for thy salvation, and done thy commandments. I have met with the most grievous discouragements: but, Lord, in the midst of the greatest straits I have expected deliverance only from thee; and never done any thing, for my preservation, contrary to thy commandments.

Psalms 119:167

My soul hath kept thy testimonies; and I love them exceedingly. All my care hath been still most heartily to observe thy testimonies: which I prefer infinitely before all earthly enjoyments.

Psalms 119:168

I have kept thy precepts and thy testimonies: for all my ways are before thee. There is not one of thy laws, of any sort, but I have carefully observed; even then when I might have privily broken them, and been a gainer by it: (1 Sam. xxiv. 4, &c.) for I knew that nothing can be done so secretly but thou art perfectly acquainted with it. TAU. PART XXII.

Psalms 119:169

Let my cry come near before thee, O Ljord: give me understanding according to thy word. As thou art also with my most earnest petitions; to which, I beseech thee, O Lord, vouchsafe a gracious answer: and in the first place teach me, according as thou hast promised, to walk, not only innocently, but prudently, in the midst of all the snares that arc laid for me.

Psalms 119:170

Let my supplication come before thee: deliver me according to thy word. Do not deny admittance to this humble suit; but in due time grant this farther request: that I may, according to the same promise, be perfectly delivered from this long persecution.

Psalms 119:171

My lips shall utter praise, when thou hast taught me thy statutes. Thenwill I praise thee without ceasing; first, for instructing me how to please thee in all things;

Psalms 119:172

My tongue shall speak of thy word: for all thy commandments are righteousness.’) And next, for fulfilling thy promise tome; whioh I will loudly proclaim with my thankful acknowledgments; that whatsoever thou hast said is truly and faithfully performed.

Psalms 119:173

Let thine hand help me: for I have chosen thy precepts. Let thy Divine power therefore succour mc in this weak and distressed condition wherein I am; fori rely on that alone; having resolved to be guided wholly by thy precepts.

Psalms 119:174

I have longed for thy salvation, O Lord; and thy law is my delight. And I have long expected, with most ardent desires, thy help, Lord, for my deliverance:, delighting myself, in the mean time, in thy laws; while •thou art pleased to delay it.

Psalms 119:175

Let my soul live, and it shall praise thee; and let thy judgments help me. O let mc not perish in these straits wherein I am involved; but spare my life, according to thy wonted kindness, and I will spend it in thy praises: send mc relief, by executing the judgments thou bast decreed against my enemies.

Psalms 119:176

I have gone astray like a lost sheep: seek thy servant; for I do not forget thy commandments. Who have so chased me from place to place during this tedious banishment; that, like a wandering sheep, which hath lost its way, I know not whither to betake myself for safety: but be thou pleased, like a careful shepherd, to look after me, and to put thy servant into the right way of escaping all the dangers to which I am exposed, and of recovering my liberty, rest, and peace again: for, how hard soever my condition hath been (I can still seriously profess it), I have not been careless in the observance of thy commandments.