Psalms 119:117 (KJV)

What does Psalms 119:117 mean?

Psalms 119:117 is a prayer asking God to support and protect the speaker, so that the speaker can remain safe and continue to honor God's commands. The verse expresses trust that with God's help, the speaker will be able to consistently respect and follow God's statutes.

The verse is spoken by the psalmist, traditionally understood as someone deeply devoted to God's law, addressing God directly. The psalmist feels a need for God's steady support to avoid falling away and to stay secure. The request to "have respect unto thy statutes continually" shows a desire not just for safety, but for ongoing faithfulness to God's instructions.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 119:117

• "up" (סָעַד, sa'ad): This word means to support, sustain, or hold up. The psalmist is not just asking for a one-time rescue, but for ongoing help to stay upright and steady in life and faith.
• "safe" (יָשַׁע, yasha'): This word carries the sense of being delivered or saved, often with the idea of being kept from harm or danger. The psalmist connects safety directly to God's active involvement.
• "respect" (שָׁעָה, sha'ah): This word means to look at, pay attention to, or regard. Here, it suggests a careful, ongoing attention to God's statutes, not just a passing glance.
• "statutes" (חֹק, choq): This refers to specific decrees or rules set by God. The psalmist is focused on these as the guiding principles for life.
• "continually" (תָּמִיד, tamid): This word means always or constantly. The psalmist's commitment is not occasional but ongoing, emphasizing a steady devotion.

Why Psalms 119:117 matters

• Psalms 119:117 clarifies that the psalmist's ability to stay faithful depends on God's help, not just personal effort.
• The verse highlights a connection between God's support and the believer's ongoing respect for God's commands, showing that spiritual safety and obedience go hand in hand.
• In the wider context of Psalm 119, this verse fits the theme of dependence on God for strength to live according to His word, reinforcing the idea that devotion is a continuous, supported journey.