Old Testament
Psalms 38:11
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
My lovers and my friends stand apart from my sore, and my kinsmen stand far off.
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My lovers and my friends stand aloof from my sore; and my kinsmen stand afar off.
What Psalms 38:11 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the psalmist expresses deep sorrow and isolation. He feels abandoned by those he loves and trusts, as they keep their distance from him during a time of suffering. The term 'lovers' refers to close friends or companions, while 'kinsmen' indicates family members. This highlights the pain of feeling alone in distress, as even those who should be supportive are not present. The psalmist's emotional turmoil is compounded by the physical and spiritual afflictions he faces, making his sense of abandonment even more profound. This verse captures the essence of human vulnerability and the longing for connection, especially in times of hardship. It serves as a reminder that even in our darkest moments, we may feel isolated, yet we can still reach out to God for comfort and support. The psalmist's honesty about his feelings encourages readers to acknowledge their own struggles and seek solace in their faith.
How to apply Psalms 38:11 to your life
When facing difficult times, it’s common to feel alone or abandoned by those we care about. This verse encourages us to reach out to God for support and to remember that true companionship can be found in faith. We should also strive to be present for others in their times of need.
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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 38:11 mean about feeling abandoned?
Psalms 38:11 expresses the deep sorrow of the psalmist who feels isolated and abandoned by loved ones during a time of suffering. The verse highlights the emotional pain of being distanced from friends and family when one is in distress, emphasizing the human experience of vulnerability and the longing for connection.
How can I apply the message of Psalms 38:11 in my life?
You can apply the message of Psalms 38:11 by recognizing that feelings of isolation are common during tough times. It encourages you to seek comfort in your faith and reach out to God for support. Additionally, it reminds you to be present for others who may be struggling, offering companionship and understanding.
What emotions are expressed in Psalms 38:11?
The emotions expressed in Psalms 38:11 include sorrow, loneliness, and a sense of abandonment. The psalmist conveys a profound sense of loss and emotional turmoil, feeling distanced from those who should provide support, which resonates with anyone who has experienced similar feelings in their own life.
Who are the 'lovers' and 'kinsmen' mentioned in Psalms 38:11?
In Psalms 38:11, 'lovers' refers to close friends or companions, while 'kinsmen' indicates family members. This distinction highlights the depth of the psalmist's isolation, as both friends and family are absent during a time of need, intensifying the feeling of abandonment.
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