Hebrew Word Reference — Psalms 31:23
This Hebrew word is a simple way of saying 'I' or 'me', often used for emphasis. It is used by people like David in the Psalms to express their thoughts and feelings. The word is a basic part of the Hebrew language.
Definition: I (first pers. sing. -usually used for emphasis)
Usage: Occurs in 803 OT verses. KJV: I, (as for) me, mine, myself, we, [idiom] which, [idiom] who. See also: Genesis 6:17; Leviticus 19:36; 1 Samuel 25:24.
This Hebrew word means to say or speak, and it's used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to command, promise, or think, and it's translated in the KJV as 'answer', 'appoint', or 'command'.
Definition: 1) to say, speak, utter 1a) (Qal) to say, to answer, to say in one's heart, to think, to command, to promise, to intend 1b) (Niphal) to be told, to be said, to be called 1c) (Hithpael) to boast, to act proudly 1d) (Hiphil) to avow, to avouch Aramaic equivalent: a.mar (אֲמַר "to say" H0560)
Usage: Occurs in 4337 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, avouch, bid, boast self, call, certify, challenge, charge, [phrase] (at the, give) command(-ment), commune, consider, declare, demand, [idiom] desire, determine, [idiom] expressly, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] intend, name, [idiom] plainly, promise, publish, report, require, say, speak (against, of), [idiom] still, [idiom] suppose, talk, tell, term, [idiom] that is, [idiom] think, use (speech), utter, [idiom] verily, [idiom] yet. See also: Genesis 1:3; Genesis 18:23; Genesis 25:32.
This Hebrew word means to hurry or flee in fear, like when someone is startled or alarmed. It appears in the Bible when describing people rushing away in panic. The KJV translates it as 'haste' or 'tremble'.
Definition: 1) to hurry, flee, hasten, fear, be terrified 1a) (Qal) to be in a hurry, be alarmed 1b) (Niphal) to be in a hurry
Usage: Occurs in 9 OT verses. KJV: (make) haste (away), tremble. See also: Deuteronomy 20:3; Job 40:23; Psalms 31:23.
To cut off means to destroy or remove something, as in Leviticus 7:20 where God says those who eat the flesh will be cut off. It can also mean to sever a relationship.
Definition: 1) to cut, cut off 1a) (Niphal) to be cut off (destroyed)
Usage: Occurs in 1 OT verses. KJV: cut off. See also: Psalms 31:23.
Before or in front of something, as in Genesis 18:22 where Abraham stands before the Lord. It describes a position of being face to face or in someone's presence.
Definition: subst 1) what is conspicuous, what is in front of adv 2) in front of, straight forward, before, in sight of 3) in front of oneself, straightforward 4) before your face, in your view or purpose with prep 5) what is in front of, corresponding to 6) in front of, before 7) in the sight or presence of 8) parallel to 9) over, for 10) in front, opposite 11) at a distance prep 12) from the front of, away from 13) from before the eyes of, opposite to, at a distance from 14) from before, in front of 15) as far as the front of Aramaic equivalent: ne.ged (נֶ֫גֶד "before" H5049)
Usage: Occurs in 142 OT verses. KJV: about, (over) against, [idiom] aloof, [idiom] far (off), [idiom] from, over, presence, [idiom] other side, sight, [idiom] to view. See also: Genesis 2:18; Job 10:17; Psalms 10:5.
This word can mean a spring or fountain, but also refers to the eye or a source of something. It is often translated as affliction, outward appearance, or countenance, and is used in various contexts throughout the Bible.
Definition: : eye 1) eye 1a) eye 1a1) of physical eye 1a2) as showing mental qualities 1a3) of mental and spiritual faculties (fig.)
Usage: Occurs in 828 OT verses. KJV: affliction, outward appearance, [phrase] before, [phrase] think best, colour, conceit, [phrase] be content, countenance, [phrase] displease, eye((-brow), (-d), -sight), face, [phrase] favour, fountain, furrow (from the margin), [idiom] him, [phrase] humble, knowledge, look, ([phrase] well), [idiom] me, open(-ly), [phrase] (not) please, presence, [phrase] regard, resemblance, sight, [idiom] thee, [idiom] them, [phrase] think, [idiom] us, well, [idiom] you(-rselves). See also: Genesis 3:5; Exodus 34:9; Deuteronomy 28:67.
The Hebrew word ʼâkên means surely or truly, often used for strong emphasis. It is used in the Bible to express certainty or contrast, like in Genesis 28:16 where Jacob says 'Surely the Lord is in this place'.
Definition: 1) surely, truly, indeed 1a) truly, indeed (strong assertive force) 1b) but indeed, but in fact (emphasizing a contrast)
Usage: Occurs in 17 OT verses. KJV: but, certainly, nevertheless, surely, truly, verily. See also: Genesis 28:16; Isaiah 40:7; Psalms 31:23.
To hear and listen is what this Hebrew word means, often implying attention and obedience. In Exodus and Deuteronomy, it is used when God speaks to the people, and they must listen and obey.
Definition: : hear v 1) to hear, listen to, obey 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to hear (perceive by ear) 1a2) to hear of or concerning 1a3) to hear (have power to hear) 1a4) to hear with attention or interest, listen to 1a5) to understand (language) 1a6) to hear (of judicial cases) 1a7) to listen, give heed 1a7a) to consent, agree 1a7b) to grant request 1a8) to listen to, yield to 1a9) to obey, be obedient 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be heard (of voice or sound) 1b2) to be heard of 1b3) to be regarded, be obeyed 1c) (Piel) to cause to hear, call to hear, summon 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to cause to hear, tell, proclaim, utter a sound 1d2) to sound aloud (musical term) 1d3) to make proclamation, summon 1d4) to cause to be heard n m 2) sound
Usage: Occurs in 1072 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] attentively, call (gather) together, [idiom] carefully, [idiom] certainly, consent, consider, be content, declare, [idiom] diligently, discern, give ear, (cause to, let, make to) hear(-ken, tell), [idiom] indeed, listen, make (a) noise, (be) obedient, obey, perceive, (make a) proclaim(-ation), publish, regard, report, shew (forth), (make a) sound, [idiom] surely, tell, understand, whosoever (heareth), witness. See also: Genesis 3:8; Exodus 32:18; Deuteronomy 27:9.
A voice or sound, it can refer to the sound of a person speaking, an animal, or a musical instrument. In the Bible, it is often used to describe God's voice or the sound of praise and worship.
Definition: : sound/noise 1) voice, sound, noise 1a) voice 1b) sound (of instrument)
Usage: Occurs in 436 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] aloud, bleating, crackling, cry ([phrase] out), fame, lightness, lowing, noise, [phrase] hold peace, (pro-) claim, proclamation, [phrase] sing, sound, [phrase] spark, thunder(-ing), voice, [phrase] yell. See also: Genesis 3:8; Judges 5:11; Job 4:10.
This Hebrew word describes an earnest or heartfelt prayer, often used to express a deep desire for God's help or favor. It can be a plea to man or God, seeking kindness or mercy. The KJV translates it as intreaty or supplication.
Definition: 1) supplication, supplication for favour 1a) to man 1b) to God
Usage: Occurs in 18 OT verses. KJV: intreaty, supplication. See also: 2 Chronicles 6:21; Psalms 143:1; Psalms 28:2.
To cry out in the original Hebrew means to shout for help or freedom from trouble. This verb is used to describe calling out for assistance in times of need.
Definition: (Piel) to cry out (for help), shout
Usage: Occurs in 21 OT verses. KJV: cry (aloud, out), shout. See also: Job 19:7; Psalms 22:25; Psalms 18:7.
This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.
Definition: 1) to, toward, unto (of motion) 2) into (limit is actually entered) 2a) in among 3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion) 4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character) 5) in addition to, to 6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of 7) according to (rule or standard) 8) at, by, against (of one's presence) 9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)
Usage: Occurs in 4205 OT verses. KJV: about, according to, after, against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and, by, concerning, for, from, [idiom] hath, in(-to), near, (out) of, over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether, with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:9; Genesis 21:14; Genesis 31:13.
Context — Into Your Hands I Commit My Spirit
Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) |
| 1 |
Psalms 97:10 |
Hate evil, O you who love the LORD! He preserves the souls of His saints; He delivers them from the hand of the wicked. |
| 2 |
Psalms 94:2 |
Rise up, O Judge of the earth; render a reward to the proud. |
| 3 |
Psalms 145:20 |
The LORD preserves all who love Him, but all the wicked He will destroy. |
| 4 |
Psalms 30:4 |
Sing to the LORD, O you His saints, and praise His holy name. |
| 5 |
John 10:27–30 |
My sheep listen to My voice; I know them, and they follow Me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them out of My hand. My Father who has given them to Me is greater than all. No one can snatch them out of My Father’s hand. I and the Father are one.” |
| 6 |
Psalms 34:9 |
Fear the LORD, you His saints, for those who fear Him lack nothing. |
| 7 |
1 Thessalonians 4:1 |
Finally, brothers, we ask and encourage you in the Lord Jesus to live in a way that is pleasing to God, just as you have received from us. This is how you already live, so you should do so all the more. |
| 8 |
1 Samuel 2:9 |
He guards the steps of His faithful ones, but the wicked perish in darkness; for by his own strength shall no man prevail. |
| 9 |
Deuteronomy 10:12 |
And now, O Israel, what does the LORD your God ask of you but to fear the LORD your God by walking in all His ways, to love Him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul, |
| 10 |
Psalms 89:7 |
In the council of the holy ones, God is greatly feared, and awesome above all who surround Him. |
Psalms 31:23 Summary
This verse is calling all believers to love and honor God, because He is faithful to those who trust in Him. It's a reminder that God takes care of those who are faithful to Him, but He also deals with those who are proud and arrogant. As we read in 1 John 4:19, we love God because He first loved us, and we can show our love for Him by obeying His commands and trusting in His goodness. By loving and trusting God, we can have confidence that He will preserve and protect us, just like it says in Psalms 91:14.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean to 'love the LORD' in Psalms 31:23?
To love the LORD means to have a deep affection and devotion to God, which is demonstrated through obedience to His commands and trust in His goodness, as seen in Deuteronomy 6:5 and Matthew 22:37-38.
Who are the 'saints' mentioned in this verse?
The 'saints' refer to all believers in God, who are set apart by their faith in Him, as described in 1 Corinthians 1:2 and 2 Corinthians 1:1.
What is the difference between the 'faithful' and the 'arrogant' in this verse?
The 'faithful' are those who trust and obey God, while the 'arrogant' are those who trust in themselves and reject God's authority, as seen in Proverbs 16:18 and 1 Peter 5:5-6.
How does God 'preserve the faithful'?
God preserves the faithful by protecting and caring for them, as seen in Psalms 121:7-8 and Jeremiah 29:11, and by giving them the strength and courage they need to persevere in their faith, as described in Philippians 4:13 and 2 Thessalonians 3:3.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways I can demonstrate my love for the LORD in my daily life?
- How can I trust God to preserve me in times of difficulty or uncertainty?
- What are some areas of my life where I may be exhibiting arrogance, and how can I humble myself before God?
- How can I show love and support to other 'saints' in my life, as encouraged in this verse?
Gill's Exposition on Psalms 31:23
O love the Lord, all ye his saints,.... To whom his goodness extends; who are favoured with the blessings of his grace, as pardon, peace, and righteousness; and who particularly are sanctified by his
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Psalms 31:23
O love the LORD, all ye his saints: for the LORD preserveth the faithful, and plentifully rewardeth the proud doer. O love ... saints. From God, David turns to his fellow-saints. (For) the Lord preserveth the faithful.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Psalms 31:23
The Lord preserveth the faithful; or, keepeth faithfulness, or faithfulnesses, i.e. is faithful in fulfilling his promises; or rather, the faithful, who is opposed to the proud doer in the next clause of the verse. Plentifully, Heb. with (for so the Hebrew al sometimes signifies) abundance. The proud doer; the enemies and persecutors of God’ s faithful ones before mentioned, whom he calls here proud doers, because of their rebellion against God’ s will, and their contempt of his threatenings and judgments, and their most insolent and contemptuous carriage towards his people; all which proceeds from the pride of their heart, .
Trapp's Commentary on Psalms 31:23
Psalms 31:23 O love the LORD, all ye his saints: [for] the LORD preserveth the faithful, and plentifully rewardeth the proud doer.Ver. 23. O love the Lord] Let not your hasty discontent beget in you hard thoughts of God or heavy thoughts against yourselves, as it hath done in me; but love him, trust him, and he will do you right. And plentifully rewardeth] Heb. repayeth abundantly, or with surplus, in seipso vel in semine suo. It may be rendered, Upon the remainder, and understood of the proud man’ s posterity, wherein God will be sure to meet with him.
Ellicott's Commentary on Psalms 31:23
(23) Preserveth the faithful.—Or, perhaps, by rendering by the abstract instead of the concrete, keeps faith. The LXX. and Vulg. have “requireth truths.”
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Psalms 31:23
Verse 23. O love the Lord, all ye his saints] It is only the saints that can love God, as they only are made partakers of the Divine nature. Holy spirits can love God, who is the fountain of their holiness; and the saints should love him. Preserveth the faithful] Those who, being filled with the love of God, bring forth the fruits of that love - universal obedience to the will of God; for to such persons his commands are not grievous, their duty is their delight; while a man is faithful to the grace he has received, that is, uses and improves the talents with which God has intrusted him, God's service is perfect freedom. The proud doer.] The man of the proud heart, haughty and supercilious carriage, and insulting and outrageous conduct. A proud man is peculiarly odious in the sight of God; and in the sight of reason how absurd! A sinner, a fallen spirit, an heir of wretchedness and corruption-proud! Proud of what? Of an indwelling devil! Well; such persons shall be plentifully rewarded.
They shall get their due, their whole due, and nothing but their due.
Cambridge Bible on Psalms 31:23
19–24. Can the author of this serenely joyous thanksgiving be the despised and downcast sufferer of Psa 31:9-18? If so, it was surely not at the same moment. An interval has elapsed; his prayer has been answered; the danger is past.
Barnes' Notes on Psalms 31:23
O love the Lord, all ye his saints - This is the “application” of all the truths suggested in the psalm.
Whedon's Commentary on Psalms 31:23
23, 24. Love the Lord, all ye his saints— “After the psalmist had ended matters with God, he turns round to his brethren in the faith to set before them the lesson of the great drama which had been
Sermons on Psalms 31:23
| Sermon | Description |
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Beg God for the Miracle of Humility
by John Piper
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This sermon emphasizes the dangers of pride and the importance of humility in the eyes of God. It highlights how God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble, as seen in Psa |
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Eternal Depth of Love Divine
by Count Zinzendorf
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Count Zinzendorf preaches about the eternal depth of God's divine love displayed in Jesus, emphasizing the vastness of God's grace and the all-encompassing nature of His love for s |
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Faithfulness
by A.W. Pink
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A.W. Pink emphasizes the critical importance of faithfulness in ministry, asserting that it is a non-negotiable requirement for those appointed as stewards of God's Word. He highli |
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Sharing the Grief of God
by David Wilkerson
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In this sermon, the preacher begins by thanking God for his blessings and acknowledging Jesus and the Holy Ghost. He asks for forgiveness for forgetting what God has done and prays |
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Jewish vs. Hebraic
by Art Katz
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In this sermon, the preacher criticizes the declining civilization and the lack of communication skills in today's generation. He emphasizes the importance of trusting in God and s |
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Collection of a.w. Tozer's Prayers - Volume 1
by A.W. Tozer
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The sermon transcript emphasizes the importance of hating sin and loving righteousness. It encourages listeners to flee from iniquity and pursue godliness. The speaker also highlig |
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All Things New
by Don Currin
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In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of Zacchaeus and how his encounter with Jesus led to a transformation in his life. Zacchaeus, a deceitful tax collector, climbed a |