The psalmist called to the Lord again to hear his supplication and to save him (vv. 169-170). He wanted to praise God for His righteous commandments (vv. 171-172). He requested continued life because he loved God's law (vv. 173-175). Finally he confessed wandering away from God but asked the Lord to seek him and bring him back to the fold since he had not abandoned God's Word.
This great and unique psalm should impress the importance of the Word of God on every reader. Apparently the writer worked his way through the Hebrew alphabet selecting key words that express the various aspects of human life. He then related each one to the Word of God and so showed how it touches every area of life and is essential to all of life. Notice that he did not just give us a catalogue of the values of Scripture. Instead he showed us how the Word is relevant and invaluable in all types of situations that the godly face. The frequent references to enemies, affliction, persecution, and adversaries keep us in touch with real life as we read this psalm. In this way the psalmist illustrated the absolute importance of what God has revealed as an adequate resource and indispensable guide through life. This psalm is not only a record of praise for God's revelation, but it is also a revelation of the importance of God's Word (cf. 138:2, NIV).
