Scripture Guide

Psalm 119:9-16

Author

Rachel Clark

Keywords (8)

Scripture (5)

Updated

Feb 21, 2025

AIM commentary

Ancient lens

What's the historical context?

Confronting the Giant

Psalm 119 is the longest of all the Psalms and for this reason it has received the nickname “the Giant Psalm.” The Psalm is an acrostic, containing 22 stanzas of eight verses, each beginning with a letter of the Hebrew alphabet. Verses 9-16 comprise the stanza based on the second letter of the alphabet. The theme of the Psalm is love for the law of God, and the perfection and completeness of the law of God is symbolically portrayed through the Psalm’s structure. Can the goodness and the beauty of the Word of God be summarized in a word or a sentence? The Psalmist indicates that he could go on and on about his delight in the law. One might be…

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Related Guide

Jeremiah 31:31-34

Detail of illustration for Psalm 90 from eine künstlerische Entwicklung um die Jahrhundertwende by E. M. Lilien (pub. Harz 1922).

Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons.

Author

Rachel Clark

Rachel Clark serves as co-pastor of New Monmouth Presbyterian Church in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia, sharing ministry responsibilities with her husband, Casey. With a Bachelor of Arts from Wheaton College and a Master of Divinity from Princeton Theological Seminary, Rachel brings a strong theological foundation and a deep passion for Scripture and community to her pastoral work. Together, Rachel and Casey are raising five lively children, who fill their home with energy, laughter, and joy.

Rachel’s life is a testament to balance—she seamlessly navigates the demands of family life and ministry. She enjoys hiking in the stunning Shenandoah Valley, reading books on a wide range of subjects, baking sweet treats for family and friends, and engaging in thought-provoking conversations during walks with loved ones. Rachel also values creating meaningful connections with family and friends through board games, which foster joy and camaraderie.

In addition to her pastoral ministry, Rachel has a playful side and holds a unique distinction—she was a key player on Princeton Theological Seminary’s 2006–2007 intramural football championship team, The Golden Calves, alongside TPW founder Stu Strachan. This achievement highlights her team-oriented nature and energetic spirit.

Rachel’s ministry is characterized by her warmth, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to fostering faith in others. She continues to serve with grace and purpose, embodying the joy and love that define her home life and community engagement. Rachel is deeply invested in the spiritual growth of her congregation, leading with a spirit of authenticity and compassion, and continues to live out her calling with a heart for those she serves.