“In the night I remember Your Name, O Lord, and I will keep Your law.” -Psalm 119:55

This is the third and final use of the word remember for this octave. The first instance is an opening plea for the Lord to remember the psalmist. The last two are from the psalmist as he recalls clinging to God’s truth in times of trial and calm, wherever he goes, in the daytime or at night lying on his bed. The Lord is his portion in all circumstances.

Whether the psalmist means a literal darkness or a season of affliction we do not know. The use of the word ‘night’ communicates vulnerability. We cannot see in the dark so our enemies have an advantage. 

Last night my husband and I watched the movie Greyhound starring Tom Hanks. It takes place during WWII during the Battle of the Atlantic. Naval ships escorted a merchant convoy ship carrying supplies for the Allied Forces, a crucial role in winning the war. Air cover protection dropped out of range crossing the Mid-Atlantic gap, also known as The Black Pit. For 36 hours the Allied ships steered through darkness without outside security. German U-boats used this vulnerability to their advantage. The Greyhound ship presses on toward an unseen enemy. 

Likewise, the psalmist will not let even the dark deter his commitment to the Lord. He will not fear but entrusts his soul to the Sovereign God. King David voiced a similar resolve in Psalm 3-4. He would not let his enemies put iron in his heart or cause him to panic. David declares, “I will lie down and sleep in peace, for You alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety” (Psalm 4:8). When we remember the ways of God- His truth, His character and His promises become a shield of defense against any foe.

Grace upon grace,

April