Old Testament
Psalms 138:6
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
This verse highlights the nature of God as both exalted and approachable.
- Author
- David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
- Written
- Around 1000-500 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and worship
- Original Audience
- Worshipers of Israel
Though the LORD is high, yet he has respect to the lowly, but the proud he knows from afar.
Though the LORD be high, yet hath he respect unto the lowly: but the proud he knoweth afar off.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse highlights the nature of God as both exalted and approachable. Despite His greatness and authority, God pays attention to those who are humble and lowly in spirit. This suggests that humility is valued in His eyes. In contrast, the proud, who may think highly of themselves, are distanced from God. This distance is not just physical but also relational; pride creates barriers between individuals and God. The verse reassures the humble that they are seen and valued by God, while serving as a warning to the proud about the consequences of their arrogance. It emphasizes that true greatness in God's kingdom is found in humility, and that He is always ready to lift up those who recognize their need for Him. This duality of God's nature—being high yet caring for the lowly—encourages believers to cultivate humility and seek a close relationship with God.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Psalms 138:6 to your life
To apply this verse, focus on cultivating humility in your daily life. Recognize your dependence on God and seek to serve others rather than elevate yourself. Remember that God values a humble heart and is always near to those who are lowly in spirit.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Psalms 138:6 mean?
Psalms 138:6 means that although God is exalted and powerful, He pays attention to those who are humble and lowly in spirit. It contrasts the humble, who are valued by God, with the proud, who are distanced from Him.
What is the meaning of humility in Psalms 138:6?
In Psalms 138:6, humility refers to recognizing one's dependence on God and having a modest view of oneself. The verse emphasizes that God respects and draws near to those who are humble.
How does Psalms 138:6 relate to pride?
Psalms 138:6 shows that pride leads to separation from God. The verse suggests that those who are proud may think highly of themselves, but God knows them from afar, indicating a lack of closeness.
What can I learn from Psalms 138:6?
From Psalms 138:6, you can learn the importance of humility in your relationship with God. It encourages you to cultivate a humble heart and to serve others, knowing that God values those who are lowly in spirit.

The Book of Psalms
Psalm 1: Two Paths
This psalm describes two paths. The blessed person does not follow the counsel of the ungodly, does not stand in the way of sinners, and does not sit among the scornful. Instead, this person delights in the law of the LORD and thinks on it day and night.
Unlock the full Psalms summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Psalms — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 150 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Psalms summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.