Old Testament
Psalms 34:17
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The righteous cry, and the LORD hears, and delivers them out of all their troubles.
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The righteous cry, and the LORD heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles.
What Psalms 34:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse emphasizes the relationship between the righteous and God. When those who strive to live rightly face difficulties, they can call out to the Lord for help. The promise is that God hears their cries and responds by rescuing them from their troubles. This assurance highlights God's attentiveness to the needs of His people and His willingness to intervene in their lives. It reassures believers that they are not alone in their struggles; God is always listening and ready to provide support. The verse encourages faith in God's ability to deliver from various forms of distress, whether they be emotional, physical, or spiritual. It serves as a reminder that in times of trouble, turning to God in prayer is both a source of comfort and a means of finding resolution. The righteous can take heart knowing that their cries do not go unheard, and that God is actively involved in their lives, working for their good.
How to apply Psalms 34:17 to your life
In times of distress, remember to turn to God in prayer. Trust that He hears your cries and is capable of delivering you from your troubles. This verse encourages you to maintain faith and seek God's help, knowing He is always present in your struggles.
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Plain Meaning
When the righteous cry out, the LORD hears them and rescues them from their troubles. The verse makes three linked claims: the righteous cry, God hears, and God acts. He does not just listen — he gets them out. The promise covers 'all their troubles', not just some.
Read It in Context
Verse 15 just said God's eyes are on the righteous and his ears are open to their cry. Verse 17 follows that up: because his ears are open, when they cry, he hears — and then he moves. The verse sits between a description of God watching over the righteous (v. 15) and a reminder that the righteous face many troubles (v. 19).
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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 34:17 mean for believers?
Psalms 34:17 reassures believers that when they face difficulties, they can cry out to God for help. It emphasizes that God hears the prayers of the righteous and is committed to delivering them from their troubles. This verse serves as a reminder of God's attentiveness and willingness to intervene in the lives of those who strive to live according to His will.
How can I apply Psalms 34:17 in my life?
To apply Psalms 34:17 in your life, make it a habit to turn to God in prayer during times of distress. Trust that He hears you and is capable of providing the help you need. This verse encourages you to maintain faith in God's ability to deliver you from various challenges, whether emotional, physical, or spiritual, reinforcing the importance of seeking divine support.
Does God really hear our prayers according to this verse?
Yes, according to Psalms 34:17, God does hear the prayers of the righteous. The verse emphasizes that when the righteous cry out, the Lord listens and responds by delivering them from their troubles. This highlights the personal relationship between God and His people, assuring believers that their cries do not go unheard.
What types of troubles does Psalms 34:17 refer to?
Psalms 34:17 refers to all kinds of troubles that the righteous may face, including emotional distress, physical hardships, and spiritual struggles. The verse assures believers that no matter the nature of their challenges, they can call upon God for help, and He will deliver them from their difficulties.
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