Albert Barnes Commentary Psalms 119:141

"I am small and despised; [Yet] do I not forget thy precepts." — Psalms 119:141 (ASV)

I am small and despised - The word here rendered “small” may mean “small” in respect to number—that is, “few” (Micah 5:2; Isaiah 60:22); or in respect to age—“young” (Genesis 19:31); or in respect to dignity—“low,” least in rank or esteem.

This language may be applied to the church as comparatively few, to one who is young, or to one in humble life. Any of these may be a reason why one is regarded as of little consequence or may be subject to reproach and ridicule. It is not possible to determine in which of these senses the word is used here, or in which sense it was applicable to the psalmist.

The word “despised” means treated as unworthy of notice; passed by; looked upon with contempt. This might be on account of age, poverty, ignorance, or humble rank; or it might be simply on account of one's religion, for the friends of God have been, and often are, despised simply because they are religious. The Savior was despised by people; the apostles were; the most excellent of the earth in all ages have been.

Compare Hebrews 11:36-38; 1 Corinthians 4:13.

Yet I do not forget Your precepts - I am not ashamed of them. I am not deterred from keeping them, and from avowing my purpose to obey them, because I am despised for it. This is often one of the severest tests of religion, and to be faithful in such circumstances is one of the clearest proofs of true attachment to God. There are few things which we are less able to bear than contempt, and one of the best evidences of attachment to principle is when we adhere to what we regard as right and true, though we are despised for it by the frivolous, the worldly, the rich—by those who claim to be “wise.” One who can bear contempt on account of one's opinions can usually bear anything.