“Give me understanding according to your word” means asking God to give us spiritual insight. This is not merely human wisdom but understanding guided by His Word so that we can truly know God, recognize our weaknesses, and live in obedience to His truth (Gill’s Exposition).

The psalmist had prayed this same request many times before (see Psalm 119:34, 73, 144), showing how much he longed to know God and live according to His truth. He desired more than knowledge; he wanted understanding that changes life.

Knowing the truth is different from living it. Many people can discern right and wrong yet still struggle to put it into practice. The psalmist understood that true understanding is more than intellectual knowledge; it brings life change.

Illustration A man attended a health seminar and learned about the dangers of high cholesterol and the importance of healthy eating. He could explain to anyone how fatty foods affect the arteries and even reminded his friends to avoid too much fried food. Yet every night he still ended his dinner with fried chicken and ice cream.

He knew the truth in his head, but his habits did not change. His knowledge did not become understanding because it never shaped his life.

In the same way, we may be familiar with God’s Word, able to quote verses, explain scriptures, and even teach others. But if we do not live it, the truth remains only in our minds, not in our hearts. True understanding happens when knowledge becomes obedience.

What happens when the psalmist knows the truth? When he truly grasps God’s Word, worship naturally flows from him. His lips (v.171), tongue (v.172), and even his soul (v.175) will praise the Lord.

Verse 175 says, “Let my soul live and praise you.” Here the psalmist asks God to revive his inner life, both soul and spirit, so that he is truly alive in God. This is more than intellectual knowledge or outward obedience. It is a prayer for spiritual vitality, where worship flows from the whole person, producing heartfelt obedience, joy, and continual thanksgiving (The Pulpit Commentary).

Even after understanding God’s truth, the psalmist recognizes his ongoing need for God’s help. In verse 176, he confesses that he strays like a lost sheep. Knowing the truth alone is not enough. We must continually rely on God’s grace and guidance to live it out.

Reflection

True understanding comes not only from studying God’s Word but also from allowing it to shape our hearts, words, and actions. May we, like the psalmist, continually ask God for spiritual understanding and depend on Him to live out the truth we know.

Prayer

Lord, thank You for giving us Your Word and the gift of spiritual understanding. Help us not only to know Your truth, but also to live it out in our hearts, words, and actions, so that our lives may be filled with praise. In Jesus’ name, Amen.