Old Testament
Psalms 25:21
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Let integrity and uprightness preserve me, for I wait on you.
Compare translations
Let integrity and uprightness preserve me; for I wait on thee.
What Psalms 25:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the psalmist expresses a deep desire for integrity and uprightness to protect him. Integrity refers to being honest and having strong moral principles, while uprightness signifies living in a way that is just and honorable. The psalmist acknowledges that these qualities are essential for his well-being and safety. He also emphasizes his reliance on God, stating that he is waiting on the Lord. This waiting is not passive; it reflects a trust in God's timing and guidance. The psalmist believes that by embodying integrity and uprightness, he aligns himself with God's will, which ultimately leads to preservation and protection. This verse highlights the importance of character in a believer's life and the assurance that God supports those who strive to live righteously. It serves as a reminder that our moral choices can influence our relationship with God and our overall life experience.
How to apply Psalms 25:21 to your life
To apply this verse, focus on cultivating integrity and uprightness in your daily life. Make choices that reflect honesty and moral strength, trusting that God will guide and protect you as you wait on Him. Seek to align your actions with your values.
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 25:21
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 25:21
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 25:21 mean?
Psalms 25:21 expresses the psalmist's desire for integrity and uprightness to protect him, highlighting the importance of moral character and trust in God. It reflects a commitment to living righteously while relying on God's guidance and timing.
What is the meaning of integrity in Psalms 25:21?
In Psalms 25:21, integrity refers to being honest and adhering to strong moral principles. The psalmist seeks this quality as a means of preservation and safety, indicating its vital role in a faithful life.
How can I apply Psalms 25:21 in my life?
To apply Psalms 25:21, focus on making choices that reflect honesty and strong moral values. Trust that God will guide and protect you as you strive to live with integrity and uprightness.
What themes are present in Psalms 25:21?
Psalms 25:21 includes themes of integrity, uprightness, trust in God, moral character, and divine protection. These themes highlight the connection between one's character and their relationship with God.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.