ש Sin and Shin*
161 Rulers persecute me without cause,
but my heart trembles at your word.
162 I rejoice in your promise
like one who finds great spoil.
163 I hate and detest falsehood
but I love your law.
164 Seven times a day I praise you
for your righteous laws.
165 Great peace have those who love your law,
and nothing can make them stumble.
166 I wait for your salvation, Lord,
and I follow your commands.
167 I obey your statutes,
for I love them greatly.
168 I obey your precepts and your statutes,
for all my ways are known to you. NIV
Surprisingly, what does the writer of this psalm fear in verse 161?
And yet, explain the kind of "fear" that has gripped the writer in verse 162.
How does verse 165 contrast with verse 161? How can both be true?
As this psalm begins to come to a close, identify how verses 166-168 represent the primary recurring themes throughout its 176 verses.
::::: Equipping Challenge :::::
Why "seven times" in verse 164? Do you think this is a literal or figurative number? In either case, what do we learn about the integrity of the writer of this psalm in regards to his love for God's laws? With this in mind, set aside deliberate moments in the next 24 hours to praise God for his commands. Keep track of when you do, and reflect back on the practice when you're done.
* Note: The 21st letter of the Hebrew alphabet has two possible sounds ("s" or "sh") and so is referred to as either "sin" or "shin" depending on the way it is used.