• Righteousness: The psalmist acknowledges that the righteousness of God's testimonies is eternal. This underscores the idea of divine justice and morality that is not subject to change.
• Desire for Understanding: The request for understanding indicates an active pursuit of knowledge and comprehension of God's will. The psalmist knows that true life is tied to understanding God's righteousness.
• Connection Between Understanding and Life: The phrase "and I shall live" suggests that this understanding is vital for spiritual existence, emphasizing that without comprehension of God's word, one cannot truly live in the fullness intended by creation.

• Matthew Henry: Henry emphasizes the eternal aspect of God's testimonies and how they provide a foundation for understanding righteousness. He notes that when a believer seeks understanding from God, it is not just for intellectual insights but for the sake of living according to His statutes.
• Albert Barnes: Barnes highlights the connection between God's righteousness and the believer's request for understanding. He posits that divine testimonies are a roadmap to righteous living, and understanding them is essential for spiritual vitality.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke elaborates on the necessity of understanding in the believer's life. He comments on how the eternal nature of God's truth informs moral principles and conduct, reinforcing the idea that knowledge of God's word supports a moral lifestyle.

In performing a biblical exegesis on this verse, we note the significance of the request for understanding. It reflects a humble acknowledgment of human limitations and the need for divine enlightenment. The mention of "everlasting righteousness" serves as an encouragement that God's principles are not only relevant for the moment but also hold eternal significance.

For readers seeking to apply this verse to their daily lives, there are several practical insights:

• Prioritize regular Bible reading and study to gain understanding of God’s commandments and testimonies.
• Engage in prayer with a request for understanding, recognizing that divine assistance is crucial in interpreting Scripture.
• Live out the principles learned from Scripture as an expression of the understanding received from God, allowing the righteousness of His word to shape character.

For those involved in Bible study groups or seeking online Bible study, this verse can serve as a starting point for discussions around the importance of understanding Scripture and its transformative effect on our lives.

• Psalms 25:5: "Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day."
• Psalms 119:66: "Teach me good judgment and knowledge: for I have believed thy commandments."
• Proverbs 2:3-5: "Yea, if thou criest after knowledge, and liftest up thy voice for understanding; if thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures; then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God."

Psalms 119:144 encapsulates an essential truth in the Christian journey: understanding God's righteousness is crucial for spiritual life. Through the combined insights of great commentaries and an application to our daily living, we can better grasp the meaning of this scripture and its relevance in our pursuit of holiness and righteousness.