1 Joyful are people of integrity, who follow the instructions of the LORD.
2 Joyful are those who obey His laws and search for Him with all their hearts.
3 They do not compromise with evil, and they walk only in His paths.
4 You have charged us to keep Your commandments carefully.
5 Oh, that my actions would consistently reflect Your decrees!
6 Then I will not be ashamed when I compare my life with Your commands.
7 As I learn Your righteous regulations, I will thank You by living as I should!
8 I will obey Your decrees. Please don't give up on me!
9 How can a young person stay pure? By obeying Your word.
10 I have tried hard to find You—don't let me wander from Your commands.
11 I have hidden Your word in my heart, that I might not sin against You.
12 I praise You, O LORD; teach me Your decrees.
13 I have recited aloud all the regulations You have given us.
14 I have rejoiced in Your laws as much as in riches.
15 I will study Your commandments and reflect on Your ways.
16 I will delight in Your decrees and not forget Your word.
You may think that this Psalm is about obedience to God's Word, and of course it is. It is about obedience that comes from a heart after God's own heart. It is about people who walk in His paths because they search for Him with all their hearts (v. 2, 3). They live as they should out of thankfulness to God (v. 7).
Please notice that the psalmist recognizes his dependency on God in order to walk in His ways. Verse 8 states "Please don't give up on me!" Verses 10-11 highlight the writers motivation—to draw near to God, and to please Him.
Make it your aim to stay close to God by desiring His paths!
