Old Testament
Psalms 18:35
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
You have also given me the shield of your salvation, and your right hand has held me up, and your gentleness has made me great.
Compare translations
Thou hast also given me the shield of thy salvation: and thy right hand hath holden me up, and thy gentleness hath made me great.
What Psalms 18:35 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the psalmist acknowledges God's protective and supportive role in his life. The 'shield of your salvation' symbolizes God's protection, suggesting that through faith, one is safeguarded from harm. The 'right hand' represents God's strength and support, indicating that He upholds the believer during difficult times. The phrase 'your gentleness has made me great' highlights the idea that God's kindness and mercy contribute to the psalmist's growth and success. This verse reflects a deep appreciation for God's active involvement in the believer's life, emphasizing that it is through divine assistance that one can achieve greatness and overcome challenges. It serves as a reminder that reliance on God leads to strength and elevation, contrasting the harshness of the world with the gentleness of God's care.
How to apply Psalms 18:35 to your life
In our daily lives, we can find comfort in knowing that God provides protection and support. When facing challenges, we should remember to rely on His strength and gentleness. This encourages us to approach our struggles with faith, trusting that we are upheld by a loving and powerful God.
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 Esther's story: Esther Becomes Queen (Esther 2:1–18)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Esther
Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. 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.
Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
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 18:35
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 18:35
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 the shield of salvation mean in Psalms 18:35?
The 'shield of salvation' in Psalms 18:35 symbolizes God's protective power over believers. It signifies that through faith in God, individuals are safeguarded from spiritual and physical harm. This imagery suggests that God actively defends and supports those who trust in Him, providing a sense of security and assurance in times of trouble.
How does God's gentleness contribute to our greatness?
In Psalms 18:35, the phrase 'your gentleness has made me great' highlights that God's kindness and mercy play a crucial role in our personal growth and success. It suggests that rather than harshness, God's gentle approach fosters an environment where believers can thrive. This gentleness encourages us to develop our strengths and abilities, reminding us that true greatness often comes from a place of love and compassion.
How can I apply Psalms 18:35 in my daily life?
To apply Psalms 18:35 in your daily life, focus on recognizing God's protective presence and support in your challenges. When facing difficulties, remind yourself to lean on God's strength and trust in His gentleness. Practicing gratitude for His involvement in your life can help you approach struggles with faith and resilience, knowing that you are not alone and that God is actively working for your good.
What themes are present in Psalms 18:35?
Psalms 18:35 encompasses several key themes, including God's protection, divine support, and the concept of salvation. It also highlights the importance of God's gentleness in fostering personal growth and success. Additionally, the verse emphasizes the strength found in faith, particularly during adversity, showcasing the contrast between the harshness of the world and the nurturing care of God.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.