Old Testament
Psalms 28:4
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, the psalmist is calling for justice against the wicked.
- Author
- David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
- Written
- Around 1000-500 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and worship
- Original Audience
- Worshipers of Israel
Give them according to their deeds and according to the wickedness of their efforts. Give them according to the work of their hands; render to them what they deserve.
Give them according to their deeds, and according to the wickedness of their endeavours: give them after the work of their hands; render to them their desert.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the psalmist is calling for justice against the wicked. The request is for God to give people what they truly deserve based on their actions and intentions. The phrase 'according to their deeds' emphasizes that individuals should be held accountable for their behavior, particularly when it is evil or harmful. The psalmist recognizes that God sees the true nature of people's hearts and their efforts, whether good or bad. This verse reflects a deep desire for divine justice, where the wrongdoers receive consequences that match their wrongdoing. It serves as a reminder that God is aware of all actions and will respond appropriately, ensuring that justice prevails in the end. The psalmist's plea highlights the importance of integrity and righteousness, urging believers to reflect on their own actions and the impact they have on others.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Psalms 28:4 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our own actions and their impact on others. It reminds us that our deeds have consequences, and we should strive to act righteously. When we see injustice, we can trust that God will ultimately bring about justice in His timing.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Psalms 28:4 mean?
Psalms 28:4 expresses a plea for God to deliver justice to the wicked based on their actions and intentions. It emphasizes that individuals should be held accountable for their deeds, particularly when they are harmful or evil.
What is the significance of 'according to their deeds' in Psalms 28:4?
The phrase 'according to their deeds' highlights the principle of accountability, indicating that people will receive consequences that match their actions, especially when those actions are wicked.
How does Psalms 28:4 relate to accountability?
Psalms 28:4 underscores the importance of accountability by stating that individuals will be judged according to their deeds and the wickedness of their efforts, reminding us that our actions have consequences.
What themes are present in Psalms 28:4?
Key themes in Psalms 28:4 include divine justice, accountability, wickedness, consequences, righteousness, and integrity, all of which emphasize the moral responsibility of individuals for their actions.

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.
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