- Home
- Bible
- Psalms
- Chapter 34
- Verse 34
Psalms 34:4
Verse
Context
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
(Heb.: 34:5-7) The poet now gives the reason for this praise by setting forth the deliverance he has experienced. He longed for God and took pains to find Him (such is the meaning of דּרשׁ in distinction from בּקּשׁ), and this striving, which took the form of prayer, did not remain without some actual answer (ענה is used of the being heard and the fulfilment as an answer to the petition of the praying one). The perfects, as also in Psa 34:6, Psa 34:7, describe facts, one of which did not take place without the other; whereas ויּענני would give them the relation of antecedent and consequent. In Psa 34:6, his own personal experience is generalised into an experimental truth, expressed in the historical form: they look unto Him and brighten up, i.e., whosoever looketh unto Him (הבּיט אל of a look of intense yearning, eager for salvation, as in Num 21:9; Zac 12:10) brightens up. It is impracticable to make the ענוים from Psa 34:3 the subject; it is an act and the experience that immediately accompanies it, that is expressed with an universal subject and in gnomical perfects. The verb נהר, here as in Isa 60:5, has the signification to shine, glitter (whence נהרה, light). Theodoret renders it: Ὁ μετὰ πίστεως τῷ θεῷ προσιὼν φωτὸς ἀκτῖνας δέχεται νοεροῦ, the gracious countenance of God is reflected on their faces; to the actus directus of fides supplex succeeds the actus reflexus of fides triumphans. It never comes to pass that their countenances must be covered with shame on account of disappointed hope: this shall not and cannot be, as the sympathetic force of אל implies. In all the three dialects חפר (חפר) has the signification of being ashamed and sacred; according to Gesenius and Frst (root פר) it proceeds from the primary signification of reddening, blushing; in reality, however, since it is to be combined, not with Arab. hmr, but with chmr (cf. Arab. kfr, כפר, Arab. gfr, gmr), it proceeds from the primary signification of covering, hiding, veiling (Arabic chafira, tachaffara, used of a woman, cf. chamara, to be ashamed, to blush, to be modest, used of both sexes), so that consequently the shame-covered countenance is contrasted with that which has a bright, bold, and free look. In Psa 34:7, this general truth is again individualised. By זה עני (like זה סיני in Psa 68:9) David points to himself. From the great peril in which he was placed at the court of the Philistines, from which God has rescued him, he turns his thoughts with gratitude and praise to all the deliverances which lie in the past.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
delivered . . . fears--as well as actual evil (Psa 64:1).
John Gill Bible Commentary
I sought the Lord, and he heard me,.... Not that he sought the Lord publicly in his house and ordinances, for he was now at Gath; but privately by prayer and supplication; and that not vocally, but mentally; for he was in the midst of the servants of the king of Gath; yet earnestly, diligently, and with his whole heart, being in great distress; when it was right to seek the Lord, and which showed him to be a good man; and the Lord heard and answered even his silent groans, which could not be uttered; and delivered me from all my fear; of being seized on by Achish, king of Gath, and of losing his life for killing Goliath: and many are the fears of God's people, both from within and from without, by reason of sin, Satan, and the world; but the Lord saves them out of the hands of all their enemies, grants them his presence, and shows them their interest in himself, which, scatters all their fears.
Psalms 34:4
Taste and See That the LORD Is Good
3Magnify the LORD with me; let us exalt His name together. 4I sought the LORD, and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears. 5Those who look to Him are radiant with joy; their faces shall never be ashamed.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Signs of an Active Faith (Compilation)
By Compilations2.3K03:06CompilationPSA 34:4PSA 37:4ISA 61:1MAT 28:19MRK 16:15ACT 1:8PHP 4:19In this sermon, the speaker expresses their belief in the power of God to provide everything they need to glorify Him. They see obedience to God and witnessing His power in the lives of people as the greatest privilege in life. The speaker commits to starting their mission of spreading the gospel on Broadway in 51st, trusting that God will give them the words to speak and the signs to follow. They express a strong dislike for mediocrity and a desire to be part of a community of believers who are willing to give their lives for the purpose of Christ. The speaker emphasizes the need for the name of Jesus to be lifted up and for people to surrender their lives to Him, believing that God only requires a heart of faith and will supply all their needs.
Seek God With All Your Heart
By Bob Jennings2.1K04:18PSA 34:4JER 29:13MAT 7:7EPH 3:19JAS 4:8This sermon emphasizes the importance of seeking God wholeheartedly, praying with faith and belief in God's greatness to transform lives, heal, and bring individuals to higher ground. It encourages complete surrender and investment in God, highlighting the power of earnest prayer and seeking God with all our hearts.
"Buts" Need to End (Clip)
By Shane Idleman2.1K02:542CH 7:14PSA 34:4MAT 6:62TI 1:7JAS 4:10This sermon emphasizes the importance of fearing God and spending time in prayer as the most powerful tools to move the hand of God, rather than relying on worldly actions like petitions or protests. It calls for a return to repentance, humility, and seeking God's face for revival in the nation, highlighting the need to prioritize spiritual disciplines over fear-driven responses to current events.
Cost of Discipleship - Part 10
By Leonard Ravenhill1.9K06:05PSA 34:4PRO 3:5ISA 41:10JER 29:11ROM 12:21CO 1:27EPH 3:20PHP 4:132TI 1:7JAS 4:7This sermon shares powerful testimonies of individuals who faced fears, doubts, and uncertainties but found courage and strength through surrendering to God. It emphasizes the transformative power of God's presence and how He can equip and empower anyone, regardless of their background or education, for His purposes.
Right Song, Wrong Side
By David Wilkerson1.5K31:23EXO 14:31EXO 15:2PSA 34:4ISA 41:102TI 1:7This sermon from Exodus 14 and 15 focuses on the story of the Israelites facing a crisis, highlighting the importance of trusting God in the midst of fear and uncertainty. It emphasizes the need to take a stand against the spirit of fear, to believe in God's deliverance, and to find hope and strength in praising God even in hard times.
David and Bathsheba
By Bakht Singh1.2K1:14:39BathshebaGod's DeliveranceSin and RepentancePSA 18:2PSA 34:4PSA 51:10ROM 7:24Bakht Singh preaches on the story of David and Bathsheba, emphasizing the importance of recognizing our sinful nature and the need for God's deliverance. He illustrates how David, despite being a mighty king, succumbed to sin due to his old nature, leading to a series of wrongdoings including adultery and murder. Singh highlights that true liberation comes only through God's grace and the acknowledgment of our sins, as seen in David's repentance in Psalms 51. The sermon encourages believers to seek a new heart and spirit from God, emphasizing that only through divine intervention can we overcome our sinful tendencies. Ultimately, the message is one of hope, urging listeners to trust in God as their rock and deliverer.
Acid Test Series 7 of 8 - Waiting on God
By Al Whittinghill89155:10Christian LifePSA 34:4PSA 106:11ISA 49:3ISA 49:23LAM 3:25MAT 6:332CO 3:18In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of translating truth into living reality. He encourages listeners to make room in their lives for the Word of God and draw near to Him. The speaker highlights the need for solitude and getting to know God on a deeper level, just as Paul did when he spent three years alone with God. He also emphasizes the concept of waiting on the Lord consciously, unlike the animal kingdom, and encourages listeners to wait before God and seek His guidance. The speaker concludes by emphasizing that the Church of Jesus is most powerful when it humbles itself and relies solely on God, and encourages listeners to take time to be holy and spend time with Him.
From Fear to Faith in the Face of Christ
By Mack Tomlinson57945:13PSA 34:4This sermon focuses on the theme of transitioning from fear to faith in the face of Christ. It emphasizes the importance of replacing fear with faith by trusting in God's promises and seeking His help in times of fear. The speaker shares personal experiences of facing fear and finding peace through faith in God's Word.
Timely Takeaways From Rend the Heavens Iv
By Shane Idleman161:03:41Spiritual WarfareRevival2CH 7:14PSA 34:4ISA 64:1JER 6:16MAT 5:6ROM 12:1EPH 6:12HEB 12:1JAS 4:101PE 5:8Shane Idleman emphasizes the urgent need for revival in the church and individual lives, urging believers to seek God fervently and to identify what must end in their lives for true revival to begin. He highlights the importance of prayer, worship, and obedience, warning against the dangers of secret sin and spiritual complacency. Idleman calls for a return to the 'old paths' of faith, emphasizing that genuine revival requires a deep, personal relationship with God and a commitment to living out one's faith authentically. He stresses that the church must remain vigilant in the face of spiritual warfare and societal challenges, reminding congregants that the presence of Christ is essential for overcoming life's difficulties.
The One to Be Feared
By A.W. Tozer0Fear Of GodUnderstanding FearPSA 27:1PSA 34:4PRO 1:7ISA 41:10ISA 43:1MAT 10:28LUK 12:52TI 1:7HEB 13:61PE 5:8A.W. Tozer emphasizes the importance of recognizing the reality of fear in our lives, arguing against the notion that there is nothing to fear. He critiques the 'fear-not' philosophy that misinterprets Scripture, asserting that it is irresponsible to suggest that believers can simply dismiss their fears. Tozer points out that the world is filled with dangers, including the potential harm from humanity itself, and he highlights Jesus' teaching to fear God, who has ultimate authority over life and death. The sermon calls for a proper understanding of fear, urging believers to direct their reverence towards God rather than dismissing their fears altogether.
Courageous Prayer
By A.W. Tozer0Trusting God's LoveCourage in PrayerPSA 34:4ISA 41:10MAT 7:7ROM 8:28PHP 4:62TI 1:7HEB 4:16JAS 1:61PE 5:71JN 5:14A.W. Tozer emphasizes the vital role of courage in prayer, asserting that just as bravery is essential in the world, it is equally crucial in the kingdom of God. He encourages believers to approach God with unwavering faith and boldness, believing in His love and goodness. Tozer insists that successful prayer is unconditional and must be offered with the understanding that God will always act for our benefit. He reassures that prayers made with such courage and trust cannot go unanswered, as they align with God's character and promises. Ultimately, he reminds us of God's infinite lovingkindness, urging us to trust Him completely.
Cast Down
By Charles E. Cowman0PSA 27:14PSA 34:4PSA 43:5PHP 4:6HEB 11:1Charles E. Cowman, inspired by George Mueller, preaches on the importance of never losing hope in God, highlighting that there are only two reasons to be cast down: being unconverted or living in sin. He emphasizes the power of prayer, supplication, and thanksgiving in bringing all our needs and trials before God. Cowman encourages unwavering faith in God's power and love, reminding believers to patiently wait for His help, which always comes in His perfect time and way.
The Negations of Christian Perfection
By Samuel Chadwick0PSA 34:4MAT 12:18LUK 1:74ROM 8:1ROM 12:22CO 6:14PHP 4:61TH 5:23JAS 3:21JN 4:18Samuel Chadwick preaches about the misconception that holiness is a religion of negation, inhibition, and prohibition, emphasizing that holiness is actually positive, freeing, and full of life in the Spirit. He explains that perfection is often described by the absence of certain qualities, as seen in the ministry of Jesus and the characteristics of heaven. Chadwick highlights that full salvation brings freedom from fear, care, and blame, leading to a life without anxiety, worry, or condemnation, filled with love, trust, and peace.
Battling Unwanted Feelings
By David Wilkerson0Spiritual WarfareOvercoming FearPSA 34:4ISA 41:10JHN 14:27ROM 8:312CO 10:32CO 12:9PHP 4:62TI 1:7JAS 4:71PE 5:7David Wilkerson addresses the challenge of battling unwanted feelings that can deceive and rob believers of their peace and joy in Christ. He emphasizes that these unsettling emotions are often tactics of the enemy, meant to lead us into despair and fear, even when we are walking closely with God. Wilkerson encourages believers to recognize that their feelings do not define their salvation or relationship with the Lord, and stresses the importance of arming oneself with the Word of God to combat these negative thoughts. He reminds us that God has given us a spirit of power, love, and a sound mind, urging us to turn doubts into opportunities for praise. Ultimately, he calls for believers to take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ.
Doing, and Not Doubting
By J.R. Miller0Faith in ActionOvercoming DoubtPSA 34:4ISA 41:10MAT 17:20ROM 8:282CO 5:7GAL 6:9PHP 4:13HEB 11:1JAS 1:61PE 5:7J.R. Miller emphasizes the importance of action over doubt in the Christian life, arguing that expressing fears and doubts can discourage others and weaken our own resolve. He encourages believers to focus on doing rather than doubting, as this aligns with God's will and strengthens both ourselves and those around us. Miller shares a poignant stanza that highlights the value of action, suggesting that our efforts, even if they don't yield immediate results, are recognized by God. He reminds us that burdens are part of divine discipline and that we should strive to uplift others with words of hope. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a proactive faith that seeks to overcome challenges through trust in God.
Past Deliverance Begets Faith
By C.H. Spurgeon0Faith in God's DeliveranceGod's Faithfulness1SA 17:37PSA 34:4PSA 46:1PSA 77:11ISA 41:10ROM 8:312CO 1:20PHP 4:19HEB 13:51PE 5:7C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes that past deliverances from God should strengthen our faith in facing new challenges, as exemplified by David's confidence in the Lord's protection against Goliath. He reminds us that just as God delivered David from the lion and the bear, He will also deliver us from our current struggles. Spurgeon encourages believers to recall God's previous acts of kindness and to trust that He will not abandon us in our time of need. The sermon reassures us that God's faithfulness remains constant, and we should approach our fears with courage, knowing that God is always with us.
God Has Never, Ever Failed Us
By David Wilkerson0Trusting God's PromisesFaith in CrisisPSA 34:4PSA 46:1ISA 41:10MAT 6:25JHN 14:27ROM 8:312CO 5:7PHP 4:19HEB 11:61PE 5:7David Wilkerson emphasizes that despite the challenges and crises we face, God is always leading and caring for us. He warns against the dangers of unbelief, which can hinder us from receiving God's blessings and promises. Wilkerson illustrates the necessity of trusting in God's steadfast promises, especially in a tumultuous environment like New York City, where fear and danger are prevalent. He encourages believers to rely on the Holy Spirit's power to overcome overwhelming circumstances. Ultimately, our faith in God strengthens us in times of trouble.
Condemnation or No Condemnation
By A.W. Tozer0SalvationFearPSA 34:4PSA 46:1ISA 41:10MAT 11:28JHN 14:27ROM 8:1PHP 4:62TI 1:7HEB 4:161PE 5:7A.W. Tozer emphasizes the reality of fear for the sinful man, who faces the inevitable consequences of sin, including death and judgment. He warns against false teachings that encourage ignoring these dangers, labeling them as detrimental to the soul. True safety and peace come only to those who have sought refuge in Christ, who can deliver them from their fears and present them faultless before God. Tozer asserts that while fear is a natural response to danger, it is only the children of God who are called to cast their fears upon Him, as they have the assurance of His protection. Those who do not turn to Christ must confront their fears alone, without the hope of salvation.
Thus Saith the Lord God
By C.H. Spurgeon0The Power of PrayerReceiving God's MercyPSA 34:4MAT 7:7PHP 4:6JAS 5:16C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes that prayer is essential for receiving God's mercy, illustrating that significant blessings are often preceded by earnest supplication. He reflects on personal experiences where prayer has led to peace, joy, and deliverance, asserting that prayer serves as a prelude to blessings and enhances their value. Spurgeon likens prayer to a shadow that accompanies the light of God's mercies, suggesting that without the act of asking, we might take blessings for granted. He concludes that the earnest pursuit of prayer makes the mercies we receive more precious and meaningful.
Crying Unto God
By Mary Wilder Tileston0PSA 30:2PSA 34:4PSA 37:4PSA 46:1JAS 4:8Mary Wilder Tileston, in her sermon, emphasizes the importance of seeking God wholeheartedly to experience healing and peace. She highlights how even small hindrances can obstruct the grace of God in our lives, urging listeners to overcome these obstacles by fully surrendering to Him. Tileston encourages turning to God as the ultimate remedy when feeling weak, low, or lonely, as He is the source of true life and the means of grace. Through God, His creatures become near, dear, and accessible, offering a path to renewal and restoration.
Remember the Lord
By James Smith0DEU 31:6NEH 4:14PSA 34:4PSA 56:3PSA 119:11PSA 119:105PRO 3:5ISA 41:101CO 10:13JAS 4:7James Smith preaches on the importance of remembering the Lord in times of trial, encouraging believers to focus on God's greatness and to fight for their families and homes. He emphasizes the need to seek God's strength and guidance, to overcome fear and prevent sin by keeping God's commands in mind, and to trust in God's promises for security and victory.
1 John 4:18
By John Gill0Fearlessness in FaithLovePSA 34:4MAT 10:28ROM 8:12TI 1:7HEB 2:151JN 3:161JN 4:161JN 4:181JN 5:13John Gill emphasizes that perfect love drives out fear, particularly in the context of love among brethren. He explains that where genuine love exists, fear—especially the fear of judgment and death—dissipates, allowing believers to stand firm in their faith. Gill contrasts this with the torment that fear brings, which can lead to a life of bondage. He asserts that true love for God and others assures believers of their salvation, freeing them from the anxieties that accompany fear. Ultimately, he encourages the congregation to cultivate a sincere love that reflects their faith in Christ.
Fear
By Harmon A. Baldwin0JOS 1:9PSA 34:4PSA 56:3PRO 9:10PRO 29:25ISA 41:10MAT 10:28ROM 8:152TI 1:71JN 4:18Harmon A. Baldwin delves into the concept of fear and its relationship with holiness, exploring the distinction between natural fear, spiritual fear, and the fear of the Lord. He emphasizes that while natural fear is necessary for self-preservation and certain situations, spiritual fear should not hinder individuals from fulfilling their God-given purpose. Baldwin uses real-life examples of individuals facing storms, accidents, and childhood fears to illustrate the complexity of fear even in those who profess holiness. He concludes by highlighting the importance of courage, not as the absence of fear, but as the willingness to do one's duty despite fear.
Nehemiah 4:14
By Chuck Smith0Overcoming FearTrusting GodNEH 4:14PSA 34:4PSA 56:3ISA 41:10MAT 10:29JHN 14:27ROM 8:31PHP 4:62TI 1:71PE 5:7Chuck Smith emphasizes the importance of overcoming fear in the face of challenges, as illustrated in Nehemiah 4:14. He acknowledges that while there are valid reasons for fear, such as real threats and exhaustion, God's command is to 'be not afraid.' Smith encourages believers to remember the Lord's love, power, and care, reminding them that fear can hinder God's work in their lives. He highlights that trusting in God can help dispel fear and empower individuals to step out in faith despite their circumstances.
Miscellaneous
By Harmon A. Baldwin0PSA 34:4PSA 51:10MAT 6:16LUK 11:9GAL 5:25PHP 2:121TH 5:23HEB 11:6JAS 4:8Harmon A. Baldwin emphasizes the importance of being led by the Spirit in the quest for God, urging believers to open their hearts before God, acknowledge their troubles, and talk faith while shunning unbelief. He highlights the power of faith in cleansing and the need for patience in seeking God's guidance and sanctification. Baldwin stresses the significance of waiting for the direct witness of the Spirit and avoiding rushing into professions without thorough surrender and examination before God. He encourages humility, persistent prayer, and fasting as vital components in pursuing holiness and perfect love.
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
(Heb.: 34:5-7) The poet now gives the reason for this praise by setting forth the deliverance he has experienced. He longed for God and took pains to find Him (such is the meaning of דּרשׁ in distinction from בּקּשׁ), and this striving, which took the form of prayer, did not remain without some actual answer (ענה is used of the being heard and the fulfilment as an answer to the petition of the praying one). The perfects, as also in Psa 34:6, Psa 34:7, describe facts, one of which did not take place without the other; whereas ויּענני would give them the relation of antecedent and consequent. In Psa 34:6, his own personal experience is generalised into an experimental truth, expressed in the historical form: they look unto Him and brighten up, i.e., whosoever looketh unto Him (הבּיט אל of a look of intense yearning, eager for salvation, as in Num 21:9; Zac 12:10) brightens up. It is impracticable to make the ענוים from Psa 34:3 the subject; it is an act and the experience that immediately accompanies it, that is expressed with an universal subject and in gnomical perfects. The verb נהר, here as in Isa 60:5, has the signification to shine, glitter (whence נהרה, light). Theodoret renders it: Ὁ μετὰ πίστεως τῷ θεῷ προσιὼν φωτὸς ἀκτῖνας δέχεται νοεροῦ, the gracious countenance of God is reflected on their faces; to the actus directus of fides supplex succeeds the actus reflexus of fides triumphans. It never comes to pass that their countenances must be covered with shame on account of disappointed hope: this shall not and cannot be, as the sympathetic force of אל implies. In all the three dialects חפר (חפר) has the signification of being ashamed and sacred; according to Gesenius and Frst (root פר) it proceeds from the primary signification of reddening, blushing; in reality, however, since it is to be combined, not with Arab. hmr, but with chmr (cf. Arab. kfr, כפר, Arab. gfr, gmr), it proceeds from the primary signification of covering, hiding, veiling (Arabic chafira, tachaffara, used of a woman, cf. chamara, to be ashamed, to blush, to be modest, used of both sexes), so that consequently the shame-covered countenance is contrasted with that which has a bright, bold, and free look. In Psa 34:7, this general truth is again individualised. By זה עני (like זה סיני in Psa 68:9) David points to himself. From the great peril in which he was placed at the court of the Philistines, from which God has rescued him, he turns his thoughts with gratitude and praise to all the deliverances which lie in the past.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
delivered . . . fears--as well as actual evil (Psa 64:1).
John Gill Bible Commentary
I sought the Lord, and he heard me,.... Not that he sought the Lord publicly in his house and ordinances, for he was now at Gath; but privately by prayer and supplication; and that not vocally, but mentally; for he was in the midst of the servants of the king of Gath; yet earnestly, diligently, and with his whole heart, being in great distress; when it was right to seek the Lord, and which showed him to be a good man; and the Lord heard and answered even his silent groans, which could not be uttered; and delivered me from all my fear; of being seized on by Achish, king of Gath, and of losing his life for killing Goliath: and many are the fears of God's people, both from within and from without, by reason of sin, Satan, and the world; but the Lord saves them out of the hands of all their enemies, grants them his presence, and shows them their interest in himself, which, scatters all their fears.