Old Testament
Psalms 27:14
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 7th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
This verse encourages believers to be patient and trust in God during difficult times.
- Author
- David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
- Written
- Around 1000-500 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and worship
- Original Audience
- Worshipers of Israel
Wait on the LORD. Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart. Wait, I say, on the LORD.
Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.
Plain Meaning
The writer tells himself — and the reader — to wait for God to act rather than giving up or forcing things. 'Wait on the LORD' means to hold on and trust God instead of panicking. 'Be of good courage' means don't lose heart. The promise is that God will strengthen your heart — give you the inner steadiness to keep going. The command is repeated at the end for emphasis: keep waiting on God.
Read It in Context
The whole psalm describes someone surrounded by enemies and real danger. Verse 13 says the writer nearly fainted — nearly gave up — but held on by believing he would see God come through. Verse 14 is the conclusion that grows out of that: since God is faithful, keep waiting on Him.
The full Clear view adds what to notice, common misreadings, and the passage that best explains this one — for Psalms 27:14 and any verse in the Bible.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse encourages believers to be patient and trust in God during difficult times. "Waiting on the LORD" means relying on His timing and guidance rather than rushing into decisions or actions. The phrase "be of good courage" suggests that while waiting can be challenging, having faith in God provides strength and reassurance. The promise that God will "strengthen your heart" indicates that He will provide emotional and spiritual support to those who trust in Him. The repetition of the call to wait emphasizes its importance, reminding us that patience is a vital part of faith. Overall, this verse reassures us that God is present and active in our lives, especially when we feel weak or uncertain.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Psalms 27:14 to your life
In times of uncertainty or distress, take a moment to pause and reflect on your trust in God. Instead of rushing to solve problems, practice waiting on Him through prayer and meditation. This can help you find peace and strength in challenging situations.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary · Psalms 27:14 Meaning
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
How can I be of good courage while waiting?
Being of good courage while waiting involves maintaining a positive and hopeful mindset. You can cultivate courage through prayer, reading scripture, and surrounding yourself with supportive friends or community. Remind yourself of past experiences where God has been faithful, and focus on the strength that comes from trusting Him.
What does God promise when we wait on Him?
God promises to strengthen our hearts when we wait on Him. This means that during times of uncertainty or struggle, He will provide emotional and spiritual support, helping us to endure and remain hopeful. The assurance that He is with us can bring peace and confidence as we navigate life's challenges.
Why does the verse repeat 'wait on the Lord'?
The repetition of 'wait on the Lord' emphasizes its significance. It serves as a reminder that patience is crucial in our faith journey. By repeating this phrase, the verse encourages us to remain steadfast in our trust and not to rush into decisions, reinforcing the idea that waiting is an active part of our relationship with God.
How can I practice waiting on the Lord in daily life?
You can practice waiting on the Lord by incorporating regular prayer and meditation into your routine. Set aside time to reflect on your challenges and seek God's guidance. Journaling your thoughts and feelings can also help you process your waiting period. Additionally, engage in activities that strengthen your faith, such as reading scripture or participating in community worship.
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