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Psalms 34:5
Verse
Context
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
God's favor to the pious generally, and to himself specially, is celebrated. looked--with desire for help. lightened--or, "brightened," expressing joy, opposed to the downcast features of those who are ashamed or disappointed (Psa 25:2-3).
John Gill Bible Commentary
They looked to him, and were lightened,.... That is, "the humble" ones, Psa 34:2; and so this is a reason why they should join in praising and magnifying the Lord; these "looked" up to God in prayer and by faith, when in distressed and uncomfortable circumstances, for help and deliverance, and a supply of every needful good thing; and they were "enlightened"; so the Targum renders it, "their faces were enlightened"; as Jarchi and Aben Ezra interpret it, in opposition to what follows: they must have been enlightened before they could look, but by looking to the Lord more light was gained: this chiefly designs the light of joy, peace, and comfort, which is had in a way of believing: some render the word "and flowed" (l), as a river does, that is, to the Lord, as in Jer 31:12. So Kimchi and Ben Melech explain the word; and it denotes both the numbers of them that looked up to the Lord in their distress, and the swiftness of their motion to him, and their earnestness and fervour of mind; so faith is not only a looking to Christ, but a going forth unto him; and their faces were not ashamed; having what they prayed and looked for, and what they hoped and believed they should have; namely, deliverance and salvation, and so peace and pleasure. (l) "et confluunt", Junius & Tremellius, Michaelis; "et instar fluvii irruerint", Piscator, Amama; "et confluxerunt", Gejerus.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
34:5-6 The psalmist narrates his experiences of answered prayer.
Psalms 34:5
Taste and See That the LORD Is Good
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. 6This poor man called out, and the LORD heard him; He saved him from all his troubles.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Wisdom Lights Up Our Face
By Zac Poonen2.4K58:10PSA 34:5ECC 8:12CO 3:18In this sermon, the speaker uses the analogy of a hotel with many rooms to illustrate the Christian life. He emphasizes the importance of having nothing to hide and having a good and loving attitude towards others. The speaker also highlights the significance of speech, comparing it to salt that adds flavor to food. He encourages believers to let their speech always be with grace. Additionally, the speaker discusses the connection between the heart and the face, stating that one's face mirrors their heart. He emphasizes the importance of having a joyful and radiant countenance as a reflection of a heart that is aligned with God.
Dreams in Flames - Part 1
By Winkie Pratney2.1K1:01:54PSA 34:5PRO 31:10MAT 6:33MAT 7:7MAT 22:391CO 7:32In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of focusing on Jesus and loving others rather than being self-centered. He encourages listeners to reach out and help others, as this will bring beauty into their lives. The speaker also discusses the qualities of a virtuous woman, highlighting the importance of inner beauty and character. He concludes by emphasizing the significance of being a woman of God and how this can attract a godly man. The sermon references the story of Isaac and Rebecca from the Bible to illustrate these points.
Keeping Our Focus
By Debbie Meroff1.1K43:11FocusNUM 22:28NEH 8:1PSA 34:5MAT 6:332CO 4:18HEB 11:27In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of not being able to see spiritually and lacking the eyes of faith. He emphasizes the need to open the eyes of our hearts and see beyond the obvious circumstances. The sermon references the story of Ezra the scribe bringing out the book of the law of Moses and reading it aloud to the assembly. The preacher also mentions the importance of looking to Jesus and filling our hearts with the vision of Him before facing our daily lives.
(Youth Bible School 2007) Christ Is the Believer's Life
By John D. Martin8881:01:30PSA 34:5MAT 6:33JHN 10:10In this sermon, the apostle Paul addresses four things in life that steal people's joy: circumstances, people, things, and anxiety. He emphasizes the importance of putting these things into perspective and proportion in relation to Christ. Paul provides practical and specific instructions on how to maintain joy through all of life and be always rejoicing. He highlights that Christ is the believer's life and encourages believers to find their joy and fulfillment in Him.
Not Alone in Suffering
By Basilea Schlink66304:35Radio ShowPSA 34:5MAT 6:10MAT 11:28In this video, Basilia Schlink shares her testimony of how she found comfort and joy in her suffering. She was seriously ill and separated from her loved ones for a long time. However, she discovered that she was not alone because Jesus was with her. She found strength and renewed faith in the reminder of Jesus' suffering and love for her. Basilia encourages others to accept their suffering and trust in God's will, as it can bring them closer to Him and be a channel of blessing to others.
David: Being a Person of One Thing
By Mike Bickle2748:27Radical CommitmentPursuit of GodPSA 27:4PSA 34:5PSA 145:5MAT 11:12LUK 10:41JHN 1:51CO 4:9PHP 3:131JN 1:7REV 4:8Mike Bickle emphasizes the significance of Psalm 27:4, where David expresses his singular desire to dwell in the house of the Lord and behold His beauty. He challenges listeners to approach this verse with fresh eyes, recognizing its depth and the radical commitment it requires. Bickle highlights that this 'one thing' lifestyle is often domesticated in modern culture, yet it is a divine invitation to a deeper relationship with God. He encourages believers to contend for this reality, understanding that it is not an automatic state but a result of years of seeking and pressing into God. Ultimately, Bickle calls for a radical re-evaluation of priorities, urging individuals to make the pursuit of God's beauty their primary daydream.
What Do You See
By E.A. Adeboye2GEN 13:15NUM 13:30PSA 34:5PSA 121:1HEB 11:27E.A. Adeboye emphasizes the importance of spiritual vision and perspective, highlighting how what we see and how we see it can determine the limits of our blessings and success. Using the example of Abraham in Genesis 13:14-15, he illustrates that our vision can either expand or restrict our potential. Adeboye challenges believers to assess their spiritual sight, encouraging them to strengthen it through faith, prayer, and walking in the Spirit. He warns against focusing too much on problems, as this can diminish faith and magnify obstacles, ultimately leading to defeat.
Faith (Let Go and Let God)
By Hans R. Waldvogel0Letting GoFaithGEN 45:20PSA 34:5ISA 45:22MAT 6:24JHN 1:12ROM 6:112CO 5:17GAL 2:20PHP 4:19HEB 4:3Hans R. Waldvogel emphasizes the transformative power of faith through the principle of 'let go and let God.' He illustrates that true freedom and abundance come when we release our grip on earthly possessions and self-reliance, allowing God to take control of our lives. Waldvogel warns against the dangers of serving two masters, urging believers to abandon their idols and trust fully in God's provision and righteousness. He encourages the congregation to embrace their identity as new creations in Christ, letting go of past burdens and embracing the rest that comes from faith. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deep, personal relationship with Jesus, where believers can experience true liberation and renewal.
Moody Chasing His Shadow
By D.L. Moody0God's ForgivenessPursuing the LightPSA 34:5PSA 103:12ISA 60:1MAL 4:2LUK 15:20JHN 8:12ROM 5:8EPH 5:8JAS 4:81JN 1:7D.L. Moody shares a personal childhood experience of chasing his shadow, illustrating how pursuing the light of God brings peace and joy, while turning away leads to darkness. He emphasizes that just as his shadow followed him when he faced the sun, the Son of Righteousness will accompany those who seek Him. Moody encourages listeners not to doubt God's forgiveness, asserting that it is their own will that prevents them from receiving it. The sermon calls for a turn towards God's light to experience His love and grace.
No Cause to Blush
By C.H. Spurgeon0HopeFaithLovePSA 34:5ISA 54:4JHN 15:13ROM 10:11PHP 1:202TI 1:12HEB 11:261PE 3:151JN 4:18REV 21:4C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes that believers have no cause to blush for their faith, hope, and love in Christ. He reassures that despite criticism, the Scriptures are without error and that simple faith in Jesus is a mark of honor. Spurgeon highlights the certainty of hope in the Lord's promises, which will culminate in joy and glory when He returns. He also affirms that love for Jesus is never shameful, as true devotion will be recognized and honored, especially in the face of persecution. Ultimately, the sermon encourages believers to stand firm in their faith, hope, and love without shame.
Look and Live!
By Miles J. Stanford0PSA 27:8PSA 34:5ROM 8:292CO 3:182CO 4:6Miles J. Stanford preaches about the transformative power of beholding the glory of the Lord, emphasizing that as we gaze upon Him, we are changed into His image by the Spirit of the Lord. He highlights the importance of deepening our dependence on Jesus rather than resting in titles or achievements, encouraging believers to draw near to Jesus with the awareness of His deep love and interest in them. Stanford urges the congregation to look to the Lord Jesus in faith, trusting that He is theirs and that His purpose is to work out His image in them, leading to a joyful expectation of sharing in His glory.
Letter 24
By James Bourne0PSA 27:8PSA 34:5PRO 8:17ISA 41:102CO 13:51PE 5:10James Bourne, in a letter to M. B. in Sezincot, 1827, reflects on the fleeting nature of life and the importance of ending well by seeking God's presence. He acknowledges the struggles with sin and the longing for God's sweet presence, emphasizing the need for self-examination and making one's calling and election sure. Bourne encourages not to be deceived by the enemy but to cling to the hope found in Christ, urging others to seek the Lord and experience His power in breaking every yoke. He expresses a desire for spiritual growth among believers, highlighting the importance of seeking God diligently to avoid missing out on His blessings.
Praying Like Christ
By William M. Clow0EXO 34:29PSA 34:5MAT 17:2ACT 6:152CO 3:18William M. Clow delves into the transfiguration of Jesus, emphasizing how prayer can lead to a transformation of one's inner being, illuminating their face with the radiance of God's presence. He contrasts our imperfect prayers with Jesus' perfect trust and unclouded assurance in God, highlighting the potential for believers to experience a similar transfiguration through deep communion with God. Just as Moses and Stephen's faces shone with heavenly light due to their encounters with God, Christ's transfiguration reveals the inner ecstasy of His spirit as He fully consecrated Himself to God's will during prayer.
The Transfiguration
By Mary Wilder Tileston0PSA 34:5MAT 17:2MRK 9:52CO 3:181JN 3:2Mary Wilder Tileston reflects on the profound significance of the Transfiguration of Jesus, emphasizing how it has brought unity between the past and present, connecting those who suffer on earth with those who have departed. The radiant light and transfigured face of Jesus have transformed ordinary human experiences and brought a glimpse of Divine beauty to uplift even the humblest pilgrims.
Check Those Unkind Words and Thoughts
By Mary Wilder Tileston0PSA 34:5PSA 119:133PRO 10:12MAT 5:44JHN 15:171PE 4:8Mary Wilder Tileston emphasizes the importance of loving one another as commanded by Jesus in John 15:17, highlighting the need for more grace, sweetness, and sunshine from God's loving heart to overcome lingering habits in the soul. She encourages overcoming disturbances caused by disagreeable individuals by forcing oneself to love them, seeing them as opportunities to become more like the kind and loving Lord. Tileston also addresses the impact of uncharitable thoughts and words, suggesting the practice of replacing negative thoughts with prayers for others to foster love and compassion.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
God's favor to the pious generally, and to himself specially, is celebrated. looked--with desire for help. lightened--or, "brightened," expressing joy, opposed to the downcast features of those who are ashamed or disappointed (Psa 25:2-3).
John Gill Bible Commentary
They looked to him, and were lightened,.... That is, "the humble" ones, Psa 34:2; and so this is a reason why they should join in praising and magnifying the Lord; these "looked" up to God in prayer and by faith, when in distressed and uncomfortable circumstances, for help and deliverance, and a supply of every needful good thing; and they were "enlightened"; so the Targum renders it, "their faces were enlightened"; as Jarchi and Aben Ezra interpret it, in opposition to what follows: they must have been enlightened before they could look, but by looking to the Lord more light was gained: this chiefly designs the light of joy, peace, and comfort, which is had in a way of believing: some render the word "and flowed" (l), as a river does, that is, to the Lord, as in Jer 31:12. So Kimchi and Ben Melech explain the word; and it denotes both the numbers of them that looked up to the Lord in their distress, and the swiftness of their motion to him, and their earnestness and fervour of mind; so faith is not only a looking to Christ, but a going forth unto him; and their faces were not ashamed; having what they prayed and looked for, and what they hoped and believed they should have; namely, deliverance and salvation, and so peace and pleasure. (l) "et confluunt", Junius & Tremellius, Michaelis; "et instar fluvii irruerint", Piscator, Amama; "et confluxerunt", Gejerus.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
34:5-6 The psalmist narrates his experiences of answered prayer.