Vs. 5 — Oh, that my ways were directed To keep Your statutes!

Thomas Manton:

… we may note, is the serious desire that is in God’s people after holiness. Mark, it is not a velleity, but a volition, Oh that, noteth the vehemency and heartiness. It is his first desire. David had hitherto spoken assertively; when he cometh to speak supplications, his first and chief request to God is, ‘Oh that my ways were directed!’ &c. Mark again, it is not a desire of happiness, but holiness; not ‘Oh that I were blessed!’ but ‘Oh that my ways were directed!’ A mind to know, a will to obey, and a memory to keep in mind God’s precepts. (Manton, T. (1872). The Complete Works of Thomas Manton (Vol. 6, pp. 48–49). London: James Nisbet & Co.)

Prayer:

Indeed, O’ Lord, direct my ways … ALL MY WAYS to keep Your statutes! If You do not direct and establish my ways, surely I will stray. Set my heart like flint towards Thee. I desire Your statutes to be the firm structure in my life. They will direct my steps in peace, joy, love, and so much more. Your statutes are good, as You are good.