Psalms 18:22
For all his judgments were before me, and I did not put away his statutes from me.
Original Language Analysis
כִּ֣י
H3588
כִּ֣י
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
1 of 8
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
כָל
H3605
כָל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
2 of 8
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
מִשְׁפָּטָ֣יו
For all his judgments
H4941
מִשְׁפָּטָ֣יו
For all his judgments
Strong's:
H4941
Word #:
3 of 8
properly, a verdict (favorable or unfavorable) pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree (human or (participant's) divine law, ind
לְנֶגְדִּ֑י
H5048
לְנֶגְדִּ֑י
Strong's:
H5048
Word #:
4 of 8
a front, i.e., part opposite; specifically a counterpart, or mate; usually (adverbial, especially with preposition) over against or before
לֹא
H3808
לֹא
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
6 of 8
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
Cross References
Psalms 119:13With my lips have I declared all the judgments of thy mouth.Psalms 119:112I have inclined mine heart to perform thy statutes alway, even unto the end.Psalms 119:128Therefore I esteem all thy precepts concerning all things to be right; and I hate every false way.Psalms 119:117Hold thou me up, and I shall be safe: and I will have respect unto thy statutes continually.Psalms 119:30I have chosen the way of truth: thy judgments have I laid before me.John 5:14Afterward Jesus findeth him in the temple, and said unto him, Behold, thou art made whole: sin no more, lest a worse thing come unto thee.
Historical Context
David's attention to God's law distinguished him from Saul who repeatedly disobeyed clear commands. David's failures were real but not characterized by casual dismissal of God's word.
Questions for Reflection
- How consistently do you keep God's word 'before you' throughout the day?
- What practices help you meditate on Scripture rather than merely reading it?
Analysis & Commentary
All God's rules were before David; he did not put away statutes. The Hebrew 'mishpat' (rules/judgments) and 'chuqqah' (statutes) refer to divine law. Keeping them 'before' him suggests constant meditation and attention. This parallels Joshua 1:8 and Psalm 1:2 about meditating on God's law. Reformed theology emphasizes Scripture's authority and sufficiency, with the godly person saturating mind and heart with God's word.