Old Testament

Psalms 118:13

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

You thrust sore at me so that I might fall, but the LORD helped me.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

Thou hast thrust sore at me that I might fall: but the LORD helped me.

What Psalms 118:13 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, the psalmist expresses a feeling of being attacked or pushed to the brink of failure by adversaries. The phrase 'thrust sore at me' indicates a serious and aggressive attempt to bring the psalmist down. However, despite this intense pressure, the psalmist acknowledges that the LORD intervened and provided help. This reflects a deep trust in God’s ability to support and rescue in times of trouble. The verse highlights the contrast between human attempts to harm and divine assistance, emphasizing that while challenges may come from others, God is a reliable source of strength and salvation. The psalmist's experience serves as a reminder that even in moments of vulnerability, one can find hope and help in God, who is always present to lift us up when we are down.

How to apply Psalms 118:13 to your life

When facing challenges or feeling attacked by others, remember that you are not alone. Turn to God for strength and support. Trust that He can help you overcome difficulties and lift you up when you feel weak or defeated.

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.

A painting of Naomi weeping between her daughters-in-law Ruth and Orpah outside a house in Moab

Illustrated scene from Ruth's story: Three Widows (Ruth 1:1–5)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

Ruth

Panoramic view across Tel Beer Sheva archaeological site and surrounding landscape.

Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. 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.

Beersheba

Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.

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 Plans

Ask AI about Psalms 118:13

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 118:13

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 118:13 mean?

Psalms 118:13 expresses the psalmist's experience of being attacked and nearly defeated by enemies. However, it emphasizes that despite these challenges, the LORD provided help and support, showcasing the importance of trusting in God's strength during difficult times.

What is the meaning of 'thrust sore at me' in Psalms 118:13?

The phrase 'thrust sore at me' in Psalms 118:13 indicates a serious and aggressive effort by adversaries to bring the psalmist down. It highlights the intensity of the struggle faced, but also sets the stage for the acknowledgment of God's intervention.

How can I apply Psalms 118:13 in my life?

You can apply Psalms 118:13 by remembering to seek God's help when facing challenges or feeling overwhelmed. Trusting in God's support can provide strength and encouragement during tough times, reminding you that you are not alone.

What themes are present in Psalms 118:13?

Psalms 118:13 encompasses themes such as divine help, overcoming adversity, trust in God, and faith during trials. It illustrates the contrast between human struggles and the reliable support that God offers.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.