PSALMS 119:150 — KING JAMES VERSION 0
“They draw nigh that follow after mischief: they are far from thy law.”
Those who pursue evil purposes draw near, yet are far from God's law; the psalmist calls upon God to deliver him. This verse contrasts the proximity of physical enemies with their spiritual distance from God's law. The psalmist is simultaneously threatened by enemies who approach physically and protected by spiritual positioning—his commitment to God's law distinguishes him from those pursuing evil. The urgent calling upon God in the face of approaching threat reflects realism about persecution faced by those faithful to covenant. The verse demonstrates that persecution of the righteous by the wicked is not aberration but consistent pattern, requiring expectation of hostility. Spiritual protection through maintained commitment to God's law differs from physical safety, yet provides sustenance through danger.
Church Fathers on Psalms 119:150
1. From its commencement, dearly beloved, does this great Psalm exhort us unto bliss, which there is no one who desires not....And therefore this is the lesson which he teaches, who says, “Blessed are those that are undefiled in the way, who walk in the law of the Lord” Psalm 118:1. As much as to say, I know what you wish, you are seeking bliss: if then you would be blessed, be undefiled. For the former all desire, the latter fear: yet without it what all wish cannot be…
Nicene & Post-Nicene / Ante-Nicene Fathers translations · public domain
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