Old Testament
Psalms 107:9
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
For he satisfies the longing soul, and fills the hungry soul with goodness.
Compare translations
For he satisfieth the longing soul, and filleth the hungry soul with goodness.
What Psalms 107:9 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse highlights God's ability to meet our deepest needs and desires. The 'longing soul' refers to those who feel a deep emptiness or yearning in their lives, while the 'hungry soul' symbolizes those who seek fulfillment and nourishment. God promises to satisfy these needs, providing goodness and blessings that truly nourish us. This can be understood both physically and spiritually; He offers not just material sustenance but also spiritual fulfillment. The verse reassures us that when we turn to God in our times of need, He is ready to fill us with what we truly seek, bringing peace and satisfaction to our lives. It emphasizes the importance of relying on God for our needs rather than seeking fulfillment in temporary or superficial things. In essence, it reminds us that true contentment comes from a relationship with God, who knows our hearts and desires.
How to apply Psalms 107:9 to your life
In our daily lives, we often chase after things that promise satisfaction but leave us empty. This verse encourages us to seek God first for our needs. When we feel unfulfilled, we should turn to prayer, scripture, and community to find the goodness that only He can provide.
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 Joseph, Jacob's son's story: Joseph Is Born (Genesis 30:22–24)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Joseph, Jacob's son
Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. 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.
Ur
The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
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 107:9
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 107:9
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 107:9 mean by 'longing soul'?
The term 'longing soul' in Psalms 107:9 refers to individuals who experience a deep sense of emptiness or yearning in their lives. It signifies a spiritual or emotional hunger for fulfillment that cannot be satisfied by material possessions or superficial experiences. This verse reassures us that God understands these deep desires and is willing to meet them, providing true satisfaction and peace.
How can I apply Psalms 107:9 in my life?
To apply Psalms 107:9 in your life, focus on seeking God as your primary source of fulfillment. When you feel unfulfilled or hungry for meaning, turn to prayer, read scripture, and engage with your faith community. This verse encourages you to recognize that true satisfaction comes from a relationship with God, rather than from temporary pleasures or material gains.
Why is it important to rely on God for satisfaction?
Relying on God for satisfaction is crucial because human efforts often lead to temporary or superficial fulfillment. Psalms 107:9 reminds us that only God can truly satisfy our deepest longings and needs. By turning to Him, we can find lasting peace and contentment that transcends life's challenges, rather than chasing after fleeting pleasures that ultimately leave us empty.
What are some examples of 'goodness' that God provides?
The 'goodness' that God provides can take many forms, including emotional support, spiritual peace, physical provisions, and a sense of purpose. It may manifest as comfort during difficult times, joy in relationships, or a sense of fulfillment in serving others. Ultimately, God's goodness encompasses all that enriches our lives and aligns with His will for us, leading to true satisfaction.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.