2. The Way of God's Word (Psalm 119:9-16)

We have been looking at Abram’s faith and his travels in Genesis 12, and this coming Sunday we’re taking a one week pause in Genesis to return to Psalm 119. As Abraham traveled and looked forward to the city of God (Hebrews 11:10), so also the Christian life is a pilgrim journey to Mount Zion. As we return to Psalm 119, the second stanza (vv. 9-16) proclaims the goodness of God’s Word to guard and guide our path. I encourage you to read these verses in preparation for Sunday, and consider what it looks like to make use of God’s Word to guard your steps from straying as you follow Jesus.

Discussion & Response Questions for Psalm 119:9-16

1. What does this stanza emphasize? What repeated theme(s) do you see?

2. How would you counsel one who feels hopeless when it comes to keeping his way pure?

3. Consider the language of guarding one’s way. Why is this necessary?

4. What threats or distractions tempt you to wander and loose your focus from God’s commandments and ways?

5. What does it look like to guard one’s way according to God’s Word? What does this look like practically? What examples do you see in Scripture? What do you find helpful in guarding your way?

6. What are the means God uses to teach his statutes to us? Why must we be ever learning?

7. What motivates the psalmist to learn and to proclaim God’s Word?

8. Why should one delight in and treasure God’s Word? How would you counsel someone who appears indifferent to the Scriptures?

9. Consider Jesus. How does looking to Jesus help us as we look to follow Him and avoid straying?

10. How ought we to respond to this text?