Old Testament
2 Samuel 23:5
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Although my house is not like this with God, yet he has made an everlasting covenant with me, ordered in all things and sure. This is all my salvation and all my desire, even though he does not make it grow.
Compare translations
Although my house be not so with God; yet he hath made with me an everlasting covenant, ordered in all things, and sure: for this is all my salvation, and all my desire, although he make it not to grow.
What 2 Samuel 23:5 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the speaker acknowledges that their family situation may not align perfectly with God's expectations. Despite this, they express gratitude for the everlasting promise God has made to them. This covenant is described as reliable and well-ordered, providing a foundation for their life. The speaker emphasizes that this promise represents their complete hope and longing. Even if they do not see immediate growth or success, the assurance of God's commitment remains their source of strength. This highlights the importance of faith in God's promises, regardless of current circumstances. It reminds us that our relationship with God is not based on our perfection but on His unwavering love and faithfulness. Trusting in this covenant can bring peace and purpose, even in challenging times. Ultimately, it encourages us to hold on to hope, knowing that God’s plans are greater than our understanding and timing, and that His promises are always fulfilled in their own time.
How to apply 2 Samuel 23:5 to your life
Reflect on your own life and consider areas where you feel inadequate. Remember that God's promises are not dependent on your circumstances. Embrace the assurance that His love and commitment to you are unwavering, even when things seem uncertain. Trust in His timing and plan for your life, and find peace in that assurance. Let this understanding guide your daily choices and interactions with others, fostering a deeper connection with God.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Samuel Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Noah's story: Noah Is Born (Genesis 5:28–32)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Noah
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shechem
Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about 2 Samuel 23:5
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying 2 Samuel 23:5
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of 2 Samuel
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Samuel, Nathan, and Gad
- Written
- Around 930 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites of the early monarchy
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 2 Samuel 23:5 mean?
2 Samuel 23:5 expresses the speaker's acknowledgment that their family may not meet God's standards, yet they are grateful for the everlasting covenant God has made with them. This promise is seen as a source of hope and assurance, regardless of current circumstances.
What is the meaning of 'everlasting covenant' in 2 Samuel 23:5?
The 'everlasting covenant' in 2 Samuel 23:5 refers to a permanent promise from God that provides security and assurance to the speaker. It signifies God's unwavering commitment to His people, regardless of their imperfections.
How does 2 Samuel 23:5 relate to faith?
2 Samuel 23:5 illustrates the importance of faith in God's promises, showing that even when circumstances are challenging, trust in God's covenant can provide peace and purpose in life.
What can we learn from 2 Samuel 23:5?
From 2 Samuel 23:5, we learn that our relationship with God is based on His faithfulness rather than our perfection. It encourages us to trust in God's timing and to find comfort in His promises, even during difficult times.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.