John Calvin Commentary Psalms 119:64

"The earth, O Jehovah, is full of thy lovingkindness: Teach me thy statutes. TETH." — Psalms 119:64 (ASV)

O Jehovah! the earth is full of thy mercy—here the prophet implores God, in the exercise of His infinite goodness, which is reflected in every part of the world, to graciously make him a partaker of the treasure of heavenly wisdom—a manner of prayer which is very emphatic.

When, therefore, he says that the earth is full of God’s mercy, it is a kind of earnest entreaty. He not only magnifies the goodness of God, in general (as he does in other places), in leaving no part of the world devoid of the proofs of His liberality, and in exercising it not only towards humankind, but also towards the animal creation.

What then does he do? He desires that the mercy of God, which is extended to all creatures, may be manifested towards him in one thing: enabling him to make progress in the knowledge of the Divine law. From this we gather that he considered the gift of understanding an inestimable treasure.

Now, if to be endowed with the spirit of understanding is a chief sign of God’s favor, our lack of this, proceeding from our own unbelief, is an indication of our alienation from Him.

We ought to remember what we have stated elsewhere: that it is evidence we have given ourselves up to the most shameful sloth when, content with a superficial knowledge of Divine truth, we are largely indifferent about making further progress, seeing that such a renowned teacher of the Church labored with the greatest passion to become more and more acquainted with God’s statutes.

Besides, it is certain that he is not here discussing external teaching, but the inward illumination of the mind, which is the gift of the Holy Spirit. The law was presented to all without distinction; but the prophet, well aware that unless he were enlightened by the Holy Spirit, it would be of little advantage to him, prays that he might be taught effectively by supernatural influence.