Old Testament
Psalms 116:4
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Then I called on the name of the LORD: "O LORD, I beseech you, deliver my soul."
Compare translations
Then called I upon the name of the LORD; O LORD, I beseech thee, deliver my soul.
What Psalms 116:4 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the psalmist expresses a deep sense of urgency and desperation as he calls upon the Lord for help. The phrase 'I called on the name of the LORD' indicates a personal and direct appeal to God, acknowledging His power and authority. The psalmist is not just asking for help; he is pleading for the deliverance of his soul, which suggests he is in a dire situation, possibly facing death or overwhelming distress. This reflects a common theme in the Psalms where the faithful seek God's intervention in times of trouble. The use of 'beseech' emphasizes the intensity of his request, showing that he is earnestly seeking God's mercy and salvation. This verse highlights the importance of prayer and reliance on God during difficult times, reminding believers that they can turn to Him for rescue and support.
How to apply Psalms 116:4 to your life
When facing challenges or feeling overwhelmed, we can follow the psalmist's example by earnestly calling on God for help. This verse encourages us to be honest in our prayers, expressing our needs and trusting in God's ability to deliver us from our troubles.
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 116:4
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 116:4
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 116:4 mean?
Psalms 116:4 expresses the psalmist's urgent plea to God for help and deliverance from a dire situation. It highlights the importance of calling on God in times of distress and trusting in His power to save.
What is the meaning of 'I beseech you' in Psalms 116:4?
The phrase 'I beseech you' in Psalms 116:4 indicates a heartfelt and earnest request. It shows the psalmist's deep desperation and sincere appeal for God's mercy and intervention.
How can I apply Psalms 116:4 in my life?
You can apply Psalms 116:4 by earnestly praying to God when you face challenges, expressing your needs honestly. It encourages you to trust in God's ability to help and deliver you from your troubles.
Why is prayer important according to Psalms 116:4?
Prayer is important in Psalms 116:4 because it shows the psalmist's direct appeal to God for help. It reminds believers that they can seek God's intervention in their lives during times of distress.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.