Old Testament
Psalms 104:14
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
He causes the grass to grow for the cattle, and herb for the service of man, that he may bring forth food out of the earth;
Compare translations
He causeth the grass to grow for the cattle, and herb for the service of man: that he may bring forth food out of the earth;
What Psalms 104:14 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse highlights God's role as the provider of natural resources essential for life. It emphasizes that He causes grass to grow, which serves as food for cattle, and herbs that benefit humans. The mention of food coming from the earth illustrates the interconnectedness of creation, where God sustains both animals and people. This reflects a divine order where nature is designed to meet the needs of living beings. The verse also suggests that the growth of plants is not random but is orchestrated by God, who ensures that both animals and humans have what they need to thrive. This provision is a reminder of God's care and the importance of nature in our daily lives, as it supports our physical sustenance and well-being.
How to apply Psalms 104:14 to your life
Recognizing that God provides for our needs can inspire gratitude and stewardship of the environment. We should appreciate the resources around us and use them wisely, ensuring that we care for both nature and each other as part of our responsibility to God’s creation.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms 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 David's story: Samuel Anoints David (1 Samuel 16:1–13)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
David

Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, 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.
Hebron
Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
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 Psalms 104:14
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 Psalms 104:14
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Psalms
- Author
- David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
- Written
- Around 1000-500 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and worship
- Original Audience
- Worshipers of Israel
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Psalms 104:14 teach about God's provision?
Psalms 104:14 illustrates God's role as the provider of essential resources for life. It shows that He causes grass to grow for cattle and herbs for humans, emphasizing His care for all living beings. This verse highlights the divine order in nature, where God ensures that both animals and people have the necessary sustenance to thrive.
How can I apply Psalms 104:14 in my daily life?
You can apply Psalms 104:14 by cultivating gratitude for the natural resources that sustain you. Recognize that everything you need comes from God's creation, and practice stewardship by caring for the environment. This means using resources wisely and ensuring that you support both nature and your community, reflecting God's provision in your actions.
What does the phrase 'food out of the earth' mean in this verse?
The phrase 'food out of the earth' in Psalms 104:14 refers to the natural produce that comes from the ground, such as grains, fruits, and vegetables. It signifies the interconnectedness of creation, where God provides the means for sustenance through the earth's resources, highlighting the importance of agriculture and nature in human survival.
Why is the growth of plants significant in Psalms 104:14?
The growth of plants in Psalms 104:14 is significant because it demonstrates God's active role in sustaining life. It shows that the flourishing of grass and herbs is not random but a deliberate act of God to meet the needs of both cattle and humans. This reflects the harmony and balance in creation, where every element plays a part in supporting life.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.