Old Testament
Psalms 25:12
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Who is the man that fears the LORD? Him he will teach in the way that he shall choose.
Compare translations
What man is he that feareth the LORD? him shall he teach in the way that he shall choose.
What Psalms 25:12 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse highlights the relationship between reverence for God and divine guidance. It poses a rhetorical question about who truly fears the Lord, implying that such a person is worthy of special instruction. The fear of the Lord is not about being scared but rather about having deep respect and awe for God. Those who honor God in this way will receive wisdom and direction in their lives. The verse assures believers that God will guide them in the paths they should take, suggesting that a genuine relationship with Him leads to clarity and purpose. This teaching is not arbitrary; it is tailored to the individual, indicating that God knows each person's unique journey and will provide the necessary guidance for their specific circumstances. Thus, the verse encourages believers to cultivate a healthy fear of the Lord, which opens the door to His teachings and guidance in their lives.
How to apply Psalms 25:12 to your life
To apply this verse, take time to reflect on your relationship with God. Cultivate a healthy fear of the Lord by respecting His authority and seeking His guidance in your decisions. Pray for wisdom and be open to the paths He reveals to you.
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 25:12
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 25:12
Related Bible verses
Key themes
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 25:12 mean?
Psalms 25:12 emphasizes that those who have a deep respect for God will receive His guidance. It suggests that fearing the Lord leads to wisdom and direction in life.
What is the meaning of 'fears the LORD' in Psalms 25:12?
'Fears the LORD' refers to having a profound respect and reverence for God, rather than being afraid of Him. This attitude opens the door to receiving divine instruction.
How can I apply Psalms 25:12 in my life?
To apply this verse, focus on developing a respectful relationship with God. Seek His guidance through prayer and be attentive to the direction He provides in your decisions.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.