This is a small embroidery work (3" square, in a 5x7 frame) that I made for my sister. She loves Portal 2, a mind-bending physics video game. This work features the companion cube, an item in the game.
Embroidered is the verse for this work:
"I am a companion of all who fear You,
of those who observe Your precepts." (Psalm 119:63 TLV)
Psalm 119 is the longest psalm, at 176 verses long, with a section for each Hebrew letter. Each letter portion has a different theme, but most are praises to God.
In this section (v.57-64 Chet ח), the psalmist is describing the benefits of following God's commandments, or the Torah. As a Jew, the psalmist describes how they have promised to follow God's word. Then, they describe the alacrity with which they follow Torah. Despite attacks from the enemy, the writer is dedicated to following God's commandments.
Then comes this verse. The writer declares that anyone who follows Torah is welcome company. Just as misery loves company, so do God-fearing people. It's a facet of human nature to surround ourselves with those similar to us. We are influenced by those who surround us, just as we influence them.
We must be careful of the company we keep. Misery loves similar company because it confirms their miserly feelings. The writer of this psalm loves to surround themselves with companions who also follow Torah because it confirms the good decision that they made. It also strengthens any further decisions to follow Torah. If we surround ourselves with people who do not follow Torah, we will be tempted off of God's plan for our lives.
In Portal 2, the companion cube is comforting to the player's character and gives them a welcome boost. They are motivated by the lovely cube to finish the current level. It should be the same in our lives. We must surround ourselves with companions who comfort and strengthen us, and us to them.
Ready to accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior? Pray this prayer.
Need prayer? Pray this prayer.