Matthew Henry Commentary Psalms 119:57-64

"Jehovah is my portion: I have said that I would observe thy words. I entreated thy favor with my whole heart: Be merciful unto me according to thy word. I thought on my ways, And turned my feet unto thy testimonies. I made haste, and delayed not, To observe thy commandments. The cords of the wicked have wrapped me round; [But] I have not forgotten thy law. At midnight I will rise to give thanks unto thee Because of thy righteous ordinances. I am a companion of all them that fear thee, And of them that observe thy precepts. The earth, O Jehovah, is full of thy lovingkindness: Teach me thy statutes. TETH." — Psalms 119:57-64 (ASV)

True believers take the Lord for the portion of their inheritance, and nothing less will satisfy them. The psalmist prayed with his whole heart, knowing how to value the blessing he prayed for: he desired the mercy promised, and depended on the promise for it.

He turned from wrong paths and returned to God's testimonies. He did not delay. It is necessary for sinners to hasten to escape, and the believer will be equally in haste to glorify God.

No care or grief should take God's word from our minds or hinder the comfort it bestows. There is no situation on earth in which a believer does not have cause to be thankful.

Let us feel ashamed that others are more willing to stay awake to spend the time in sinful pleasures than we are to praise God. And we should be more earnest in prayer, that our hearts may be filled with his mercy, grace, and peace.