Psalm 119:26 | “When I told of my ways, you answered me; teach me your statutes!”

The psalmist longs to know God more deeply. He poured out his struggles before the Lord, and God faithfully heard him. He doesn’t stop at answered prayer. The psalmist asks that God would teach him his statutes. He knows that with a heart transformed by God’s word, he will be able to see his troubles through the lens of truth and remain faithful, even when life feels uncertain and dangerous. Matthew Henry insightfully observes: “When he knew God had heard his declaration of his ways he did not say, ‘Now, Lord, tell me my lot, and let me know what the event will be;’ but, ‘Now, Lord, tell me my duty; let me know what thou wouldst have me to do as the case stands.’” As you pour out your heart to God, resist the urge to first seek clarity about outcomes. Instead, ask for clarity about obedience. Let your deepest desire be to know your duty, not your destiny.