John Calvin Commentary Psalms 119:49

"Remember the word unto thy servant, Because thou hast made me to hope." — Psalms 119:49 (ASV)

Remember your word. He prays that God would really perform what he promised, for the outcome proves that he does not forget his word. We infer that he is speaking of the promises from the end of the verse, in which he declares that he was given cause to hope, for which there would be no basis unless grace had been presented to him.

In the second verse, he asserts that though God still kept him in suspense, yet he relied with confidence on his word. At the same time, he informs us that during his troubles and anxieties, he did not search for vain consolation, as the world is accustomed to do. People of the world look around in all directions to find something to mitigate their miseries; and if any allurements appeal to them, they use these as a remedy for alleviating their sorrows.

On the contrary, the prophet says he was satisfied with the word of God itself. When all other refuges failed him, there he found life full and perfect. Nevertheless, he implicitly acknowledges that if he does not acquire courage from the word of God, he will become like a dead man. The ungodly may sometimes experience a lifting of spirits during their miseries, but they are totally lacking this inward strength of mind.

The prophet, then, had good reason for stating that in the time of affliction the faithful experience animation and vigor solely from the word of God inspiring them with life. Hence, if we meditate carefully on his word, we will live even in the midst of death, nor will we encounter any sorrow so heavy for which it will not provide a remedy. And if we are deprived of consolation and help in our adversities, the blame must rest with ourselves; because, despising or overlooking the word of God, we purposely deceive ourselves with vain consolation.