Old Testament
Psalms 119:86
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
All your commandments are faithful — they persecute me wrongfully; help me.
Compare translations
All thy commandments are faithful: they persecute me wrongfully; help thou me.
What Psalms 119:86 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the psalmist acknowledges the unwavering faithfulness of God's commandments. Despite this, he finds himself facing wrongful persecution, which causes him distress. The psalmist appeals to God for help, recognizing that he cannot overcome these challenges alone. This highlights a common theme in the Psalms: the tension between faithfulness to God's laws and the reality of suffering and injustice in life. The psalmist's plea for assistance reflects a deep reliance on God during difficult times, emphasizing the importance of seeking divine support when facing adversity. This verse serves as a reminder that even when we strive to follow God's ways, we may encounter opposition and hardship, but we can always turn to God for strength and guidance.
How to apply Psalms 119:86 to your life
When facing unjust treatment or challenges, remember to turn to God for support. Acknowledge His commandments and seek strength through prayer. Trust that God is aware of your struggles and will provide the help you need to endure and overcome difficulties.
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 119:86
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 119:86
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 119:86 mean?
Psalms 119:86 expresses the psalmist's recognition of the faithfulness of God's commandments while also highlighting his experience of wrongful persecution. He seeks God's help in dealing with the distress caused by this injustice.
What is the meaning of 'they persecute me wrongfully' in Psalms 119:86?
The phrase 'they persecute me wrongfully' indicates that the psalmist is suffering from unjust treatment by others, despite his commitment to following God's laws. It reflects the reality of facing adversity even when striving to live righteously.
How can I apply Psalms 119:86 in my life?
You can apply Psalms 119:86 by turning to God in prayer when facing unjust treatment or challenges. Acknowledge His commandments and trust that He will provide the strength and help you need to endure difficult situations.
What themes are present in Psalms 119:86?
The themes present in Psalms 119:86 include the faithfulness of God's commandments, the experience of persecution, the need for divine help, and the reliance on God during times of suffering.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.