The Word of God and why it matters

"Blessed are those whose ways are blameless,
who walk according to the law of the LORD.
Blessed are those who keep his statutes
and seek him with all their heart—

they do no wrong
but follow his ways.

You have laid down precepts
that are to be fully obeyed.

Oh, that my ways were steadfast
in obeying your decrees!

Then I would not be put to shame
when I consider all your commands.

I will praise you with an upright heart
as I learn your righteous laws.

I will obey your decrees;
do not utterly forsake me.

How can those who are young keep their way pure?
By living according to your word.
I seek you with all my heart;
do not let me stray from your commands.

I have hidden your word in my heart
that I might not sin against you.

Praise be to you, LORD;
teach me your decrees.

With my lips I recount
all the laws that come from your mouth.

I rejoice in following your statutes
as one rejoices in great riches.

I meditate on your precepts
and consider your ways.

I delight in your decrees;
I will not neglect your word.

Be good to your servant while I live,
that I may obey your word.
Open my eyes that I may see
wonderful things in your law.

I am a stranger on earth;
do not hide your commands from me.

My soul is consumed with longing
for your laws at all times.

You rebuke the arrogant, who are accursed,
those who stray from your commands.

Remove from me scorn and contempt,
for I keep your statutes.

Though rulers sit together and slander me,
your servant will meditate on your decrees.

Your statutes are my delight;
they are my counselors."

Psalm 119:1-24

I was reading Psalm 119 today and was struck again by the need for myself to study the word of God in order to know God, and want to glorify him by living to please him.