(161-168) Rulers were persecuting the author. But in God and God's word, the author found great joy (162), much praise (164), great peace (165), much hope and salvation (166). He hated falsehood, but he loved God's truth greatly (163,167). He knew that God sees all our ways (168). No one who loves God and his word will stumble in darkness.

(169-176) The final verses are an earnest prayer for understanding, deliverance, help, salvation, and life. He longs to sing praises to God for God's mercy and help. He admits that he has strayed like a lost sheep and prays that God may look for him and find him. He has done his best to love God and obey his word. Still, he casts himself upon the mercy of God. He has not forgotten God, and he trusts that God has not forgotten him.


Application: O LORD, how great are your love, mercy and promises to us. Thank you for your holy word. Thank you for being our Good Shepherd, seeking your lost sheep when we stray. Thank you for giving us great joy, peace, and hope through Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior.
One Word: Peace, joy, and salvation come to those who love God and his word