Psalms 119:37 – “Turn my eyes away from worthless things; preserve my life according to your word.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
In Psalm 119:37, the psalmist asks God to help him stay focused on what truly matters. By praying, “Turn my eyes away from worthless things,” he recognizes that it’s easy to get distracted by things that have no lasting value. These “worthless things” could refer to material possessions, empty pleasures, or pursuits that don’t align with God’s will. The second part of the verse, “preserve my life according to your word,” shows the psalmist’s desire to live a life that is sustained and enriched by God’s truth. He understands that real life is found not in chasing after the temporary things of this world but in aligning oneself with God’s eternal word.
Historical Context
During the time this psalm was written, the people of Israel were often surrounded by cultures that chased after idols, material wealth, and self-indulgent lifestyles. For the Israelites, living according to God’s word meant resisting the allure of these empty pursuits. The psalmist’s prayer to turn his eyes away from worthless things reflects a desire to stay true to God’s commandments in a world filled with distractions. This plea shows a deep understanding that these worldly pursuits lead to emptiness and that only God’s word can provide true purpose and fulfillment.
Theological Implications
Theologically, this verse teaches that true life is found in focusing on God’s will and turning away from the distractions of the world. The psalmist’s request for God to redirect his focus acknowledges human weakness—our tendency to be captivated by things that don’t really matter. By asking God to preserve his life according to His word, the psalmist shows that he believes God’s word is the source of life, wisdom, and fulfillment. It also implies that spiritual vitality is directly connected to what we choose to focus on. This verse encourages believers to ask God for help in avoiding the temptations that can pull them away from a life centered on Him.
Literary Analysis
Psalm 119 is known for its deep reflection on the beauty and power of God’s word. In verse 37, the psalmist uses vivid imagery: turning one’s eyes away from worthless things. The phrase “turn my eyes” suggests a deliberate act of refocusing, which shows that staying faithful to God requires intentionality. The contrast between “worthless things” and “preserve my life” highlights the difference between what the world offers and what God provides. The structure of the verse, with its direct plea to God, emphasizes the psalmist’s dependence on God’s help to remain focused on what is truly important.
Biblical Cross-References
- Matthew 6:19-21: “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth… For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
- Proverbs 4:25: “Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you.”
- 1 John 2:15-17: “Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them.”
- Colossians 3:2: “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Psalm 119:37 serves as a reminder to be vigilant about where we focus our attention. In a world full of distractions like social media, advertisements, and endless entertainment, it’s easy to get caught up in things that don’t really matter. This verse challenges us to examine our priorities and to ask God to help us focus on what is truly important. By turning our eyes away from “worthless things” and focusing on God’s word, we can find a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment. It’s about being intentional in choosing what we allow to capture our attention and shape our lives.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
The psalmist’s request for God to turn his eyes away from worthless things reflects a belief in God’s loving care. God desires what is best for us, and He knows that focusing on temporary things will ultimately leave us empty. God’s willingness to guide us away from distractions shows His love and desire for us to experience the fullness of life that comes from knowing Him. By asking God to preserve his life according to His word, the psalmist is placing his trust in God’s wisdom and love, knowing that God’s instructions are designed to lead us into a life of true joy and fulfillment.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus lived a life that was fully focused on doing the will of the Father. He often warned His followers about the dangers of getting caught up in worldly pursuits. In Matthew 6:33, Jesus said, “Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” Jesus also taught that our focus should be on eternal things rather than on temporary, earthly pleasures. By following Jesus’ example, we learn to prioritize God’s will above all else. Through Jesus, we are empowered to turn our eyes away from the distractions of this world and to live a life centered on God’s word.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What are some “worthless things” that you find yourself focusing on in your daily life? How can you redirect your attention to what truly matters?
- How can you make God’s word a greater focus in your life, especially in a world filled with distractions?
- What practical steps can you take to turn your eyes away from the things that pull you away from God?
- How does understanding that God wants to preserve your life according to His word change your perspective on what you pursue?
- How can Jesus’ teachings and example inspire you to live a life focused on God’s will?
Psalm 119:37 encourages us to be intentional about where we place our focus. It’s a call to seek God’s help in turning away from distractions that lead us astray and to find life and joy in His word. Let this verse inspire you to set your eyes on what truly matters, trusting that God will guide you toward a life that is rich in purpose and meaning.