All in Theology

This psalm presents an interesting question: is this representative of a covenant individual or the covenant messiah? This individual is seemingly free from any sin. If read quite literally could this be applied to anyone but the messiah?

Though the symbolism of the “smoking firepot” can be linked to the darkness and smoke that Moses encountered on Mount Sinai (Exo 19:18), it is more likely that it along with the “blazing torch” are revisited in the pillar of cloud and fire (Exo 13:21). 

After establishing how the Lord is the covenant fulfillment for the psalmist, this psalm turns briefly to the assurances of the person seeking after God. It is the one receiving counsel and instruction (v. 7) from God that is not shaken (v. 8). Our “heart” and “flesh” can rejoice for our God is deliverer of both soul and body.

The Holy Spirit's Covenant

Contrary to popular opinion, it isn't enough to just "read the Bible" and make a decision. One has to struggle to identify their own paradigms and lens. Everyone has them and it is always hard to break away from them (even if they are correct) to evaluate the Scriptures afresh.

The importance of “and you” here cannot be lost within the context of this epistle. This is the designation of Gentile converts (Eph 1:12; 2:11; 3:1; 4:17). Paul’s discourse here is first and best applied to Gentiles.