Old Testament

Psalms 38:17

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 speaker expresses a deep sense of despair and vulnerability.

Author: David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
Written: Around 1000-500 BC
Genre: Poetry and worship
Original Audience: Worshipers of Israel

CBTClear Bible Translation

For I am about to fall, and my sorrow is always with me.

KJVKing James Version

For I am ready to halt, and my sorrow is continually before me.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, the speaker expresses a deep sense of despair and vulnerability. The phrase "I am about to fall" indicates a feeling of being on the brink of collapse, whether emotionally, spiritually, or physically. The sorrow that is "always with me" suggests a persistent state of grief or distress that the speaker cannot escape. This reflects a common human experience of feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges and the weight of personal struggles. The use of the word "halt" in the KJV implies a sense of being stuck or unable to move forward, highlighting the impact of sorrow on one's ability to progress in life. Overall, this verse captures the essence of human suffering and the need for support and healing in times of trouble.

Key themes

Related Bible verses

How to apply Psalms 38:17 to your life

When facing overwhelming sorrow, it's important to acknowledge our feelings and seek help. Sharing our burdens with trusted friends or spiritual leaders can provide comfort and guidance. Remember, it's okay to feel vulnerable and to ask for support during difficult times.

Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Psalms 38:17 mean in simple terms?

Psalms 38:17 expresses a feeling of deep sorrow and vulnerability. The speaker feels on the verge of collapse, indicating emotional or spiritual distress. The constant presence of sorrow suggests an ongoing struggle that is hard to escape. This verse highlights the human experience of feeling overwhelmed and the need for support during tough times.

How can I apply the message of Psalms 38:17 to my life?

You can apply the message of Psalms 38:17 by acknowledging your feelings of sorrow and seeking help when needed. It's important to talk to trusted friends, family, or spiritual leaders about your struggles. Remember that it's okay to feel vulnerable and that sharing your burdens can lead to healing and support.

Why is sorrow described as 'continually before me' in this verse?

Describing sorrow as 'continually before me' indicates that the speaker is constantly aware of their pain and distress. This persistent state of grief can feel all-consuming, making it difficult to find relief or joy. It underscores the reality of living with ongoing emotional challenges and the need for support.

What themes are present in Psalms 38:17?

Psalms 38:17 encompasses themes of sorrow, vulnerability, despair, and emotional struggle. It reflects the human experience of feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges and highlights the importance of seeking support and healing during difficult times.

Book Summary

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.

That person is compared to a tree planted by streams of water that produces fruit in season and keeps its leaf from withering, and their way prospers. The ungodly are not like that; they are like chaff driven by the wind. The psalm ends by saying the ungodly do not stand in the judgment or remain among the righteous, because the LORD knows the way of the righteous, but the way of the ungodly perishes. Psalm 2: The Anointed King This psalm speaks about nations and rulers stirring up unrest and setting themselves against the LORD and against his Anointed. They speak as if they can break free from God's rule, as though his bonds can be thrown off. The LORD who sits in the heavens responds with scorn and speaks in his wrath. He declares his king set upon Zion, and the Anointed speaks of the decree: he is called the Son and is given the nations for an inheritance. The psalm warns kings and judges to be wise, to serve the LORD with fear, and to rejoice with trembling, ending with a call to honor the Son and a statement that blessed are all who trust in him. Psalm 3: A Psalm of David (Fleeing from Absalom) A Psalm of David, when he flees from Absalom his son. David speaks of many enemies rising up against him and many voices saying there is no help for him in God. He describes pressure on every side and the shame those words bring. David then speaks directly of the LORD as his shield, his glory, and the one who lifts up his head. He says he cries to the LORD and receives an answer from God's holy hill, and he lies down and sleeps because the LORD sustains him. He says he is not afraid though tens of thousands set themselves against him, and he calls on the LORD to arise, asking for deliverance and blessing for God's people.

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