Psalm 119:161-168

Observation:
The writer says that though powerful people hate him without cause (persecute), he will continue to stand by God's Word. He gets excited when he discovers the treasures (great spoil) he finds there. He says he prayers seven times a day because it brings him peace (shalom). He knows that God's salvation from his troubles is coming because he has been obedient to the Word. His obedience comes from his love of the Word and the knowledge that God both knows and directs his path.
Application:
To be so focused on God that I am in an attitude of praise and worship throughout the day is a goal to strive for. I get so busy in doing things that I all too frequently crowd God out! When I am living in this frenetic way, I will not experience the great shalom the writer speaks of. Don't we all want peace in our lives - I know I do!
Prayer:
Lord help the children as they sing tomorrow to sing to You! May you be pleased with the praises we bring. Help me to direct them properly and don't allow my nerves to show. Let me be an example of calmness and trust in You! May we continually learn the lessons from Hebrews 11:6 - "And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone that comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him."

Psalm 119:153-160

Observation:
David tells God to look at his affliction and rescue him because he has been faithful to God's Word. God, be my advocate and plead my case; redeem and revive me. The wicked will not be saved because they don't seek You. He has lots of persecutors and adversaries, but still keeps God's laws. He contrasts the wicked who are treacherous and loathe God's Word with his love for God's precepts.
Application:
God's compassion is great to me (156) just as it was to David. I need to show compassion to those around me. It's not enough to receive God's grace to me - we are to give to others what we have been given. If that truly was how I lived my life, people couldn't help but be attracted to the light of Jesus they'd see in me!

Psalm 119:145-152

Observation:
The psalmist cried out to God to deliver him because he obeyed, hoped in, and meditated on His Word. His enemies who where near him - were far removed from God's Word. He knows God is near him. He grew up knowing God's Word and knew they are eternal.
Application:
He makes reading and meditating on God's Word a priority. He does this at night and early in the morning probably while others slept and all was quiet and free of distractions. This is a great example for me - to get to bed earlier enough at night so that I can wake up early to ensure I have time for my QT first thing. I always feel so much better starting the day this way. Generally now, I have QT late at night which is also a calming way to end the day and prepare for a relaxing sleep while thinking over what I've just read. No matter how I do it - the important thing is to do it!!