Finding Comfort in God's Righteousness During Difficult Times

In a world that craves authenticity, there's something powerful about people who are not only real about their struggles but also passionate about what matters most to them. The writer of Psalm 119 embodies this combination perfectly—being honest about his feelings while demonstrating unwavering zeal for God's word.

As we explore Psalm 119:137-144, we discover a passionate follower of God who finds stability in God's righteousness even when life feels chaotic. This section reveals how we can trust God's character and promises during our most challenging seasons.

What does it mean that God is righteous?

The psalmist begins with a powerful declaration: "Righteous are you, O Lord, and right are your rules" (v.137). This isn't just a casual observation—it's a foundational truth that anchors everything else.

God's righteousness means He always acts in accordance with what is right, and He Himself is the final standard of what is right. Unlike humans who can be inconsistent or compromised, God cannot be anything less than perfectly righteous. His judgments are perfectly straight—like a flawless line with no crookedness.

When your life feels crooked or out of alignment, remember that God's character never changes. If you belong to Jesus, you are in good hands because God can only do what is good and just.

How can we be righteous before a perfectly righteous God?

This question leads us to the heart of the gospel. Romans 3 reminds us that "none is righteous, no, not one" and "all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." Only God alone is righteous.

So how can we be counted right before God? Through Jesus Christ. 2 Corinthians 5:21 explains: "For our sake, He made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God."

When we repent and trust in Jesus—who lived a perfectly righteous life, died for our sins, was buried, and rose again—we receive His righteousness. This is the good news that transforms everything.

Why should we cherish God's promises?

The psalmist declares, "Your promise is well tried, and your servant loves it" (v.140). God's promises are "exceedingly refined"—like silver purified seven times, with no impurities.

These aren't empty words; they're promises that have been tested through suffering. The psalmist cherishes them because he has experienced God's faithfulness during his trials. God's words can always be counted on in times of uncertainty and chaos.

Take a moment to consider how God has been true to His Word in your life. How has He carried you through suffering? These experiences should encourage you to passionately share what God is doing in your life and how He always fulfills His promises.

What happens when we're passionate about God's word?

The psalmist confesses, "My zeal consumes me because my foes forget your words" (v.139). His passion for God burns so intensely that it nearly silences him when he sees others disregarding God's truth.

This zeal reflects his commitment to remember God's word no matter what. He won't stand idly by while others reject God's righteous rules. He loves God's words because he loves God.

However, this passion comes with a cost. The psalmist admits, "I am small and despised, yet I do not forget your precepts" (v.141). The world has "canceled" him because of his love for God.

2 Timothy 3:12-13 warns us: "All who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted." If you follow Jesus passionately—defending the poor, speaking for the voiceless, proclaiming Jesus as the only name that saves—you may face mockery or rejection. You might not lose your life, but you could lose your job, friends, or social status.

How can we find stability when life feels unstable?

The psalmist candidly expresses his troubles: "Trouble and anguish have found me out, but your commandments are my delight" (v.143). Despite his suffering, he continues to find joy in God's word.

Throughout Psalm 119, we see that suffering is frequent in the psalmist's life. Yet by God's grace, he remains confident that God will be true to His word. As you encounter trials, you too can endure because God's Word is reliable and His Spirit helps you persevere.

When it feels like trouble and anguish are always following you, remember Jesus' words: "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid" (John 14:27).

The psalmist concludes by asking for understanding: "Your testimonies are righteous forever; give me understanding that I may live" (v.144). When facing hardships, cry out for understanding and discernment. You can never know God enough—He will always give you more understanding as you seek Him.

Application

In times of zeal and trouble, delight in God's righteousness, whose word is forever righteous. Jesus Christ—the same yesterday, today, and forever—is our perfect example of trusting God's promises through suffering.

No one kept all God's commandments, had more zeal for God's house, was more mocked by enemies, or trusted God's promises more than Jesus. He endured the cross and promises to be with us always, to the end of the age.

This week, consider these questions: 

• Where in my life do I need to trust God's righteousness when circumstances feel unjust?
• How can I express my passion for God's word in a way that draws others to Him?
• What promises of God have been "well tried" in my life that I can share with others who are struggling?
• When I face mockery or rejection for my faith, how can I respond like Christ did—without reviling in return?

Remember that God's righteousness never changes, even when everything around you does. In your most difficult moments, His word remains your most stable foundation.