Old Testament
Psalms 119:173
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Let your hand help me, for I have chosen your precepts.
Compare translations
Let thine hand help me; for I have chosen thy precepts.
What Psalms 119:173 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the psalmist is expressing a deep reliance on God for assistance. The phrase "let your hand help me" signifies a plea for divine intervention and support. The psalmist acknowledges that they have made a conscious choice to follow God's laws and teachings, referred to as "precepts." This choice reflects a commitment to living according to God's will. By asking for help, the psalmist recognizes their own limitations and the need for God's strength to uphold their decision. The verse highlights the relationship between human effort and divine support, emphasizing that while one can choose to follow God's ways, they also need God's help to remain steadfast in that choice. It serves as a reminder that faith is not just about making decisions but also about seeking God's guidance and strength in the journey of life.
How to apply Psalms 119:173 to your life
In our daily lives, we can apply this verse by actively seeking God's help in our decisions and challenges. When we choose to follow God's teachings, we should also ask for His strength to stay true to that path. This encourages a deeper relationship with God, recognizing our need for His guidance.
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 119:173
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 119:173
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 119:173 mean?
Psalms 119:173 expresses a plea for God's help, emphasizing the psalmist's commitment to following God's teachings. It highlights the need for divine support in maintaining faith and living according to God's will.
What is the meaning of 'let your hand help me' in Psalms 119:173?
'Let your hand help me' signifies a request for God's intervention and assistance. It reflects the psalmist's recognition of their own limitations and the necessity of God's strength in their spiritual journey.
How can I apply Psalms 119:173 in my life?
You can apply this verse by actively asking for God's help in your decisions and challenges. When you choose to follow God's teachings, seek His strength to remain committed to that path.
What themes are present in Psalms 119:173?
The themes in Psalms 119:173 include divine assistance, commitment to God's laws, reliance on God, human limitations, and the importance of faith and obedience in one's life.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.