Old Testament

Psalms 40:9

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 commitment to sharing the message of righteousness openly and boldly in front of a large audience.

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

I have proclaimed righteousness in the great assembly; see, I have not held back my words, O LORD, you know.

KJVKing James Version

I have preached righteousness in the great congregation: lo, I have not refrained my lips, O LORD, thou knowest.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, the speaker expresses a commitment to sharing the message of righteousness openly and boldly in front of a large audience. The phrase "great assembly" or "great congregation" indicates a public setting where the speaker feels compelled to declare the truth about God's righteousness. The speaker emphasizes that they have not held back their words, suggesting a sense of urgency and responsibility to communicate God's message. By addressing the Lord directly, the speaker acknowledges that God is aware of their actions and intentions. This verse highlights the importance of being vocal about one's faith and the necessity of proclaiming truth in community settings, reinforcing the idea that believers should not shy away from sharing their beliefs, even in challenging environments. It serves as a reminder that faith is not just a private matter but something that should be shared with others, encouraging accountability and transparency in one's spiritual journey. Explore related worship.

Key themes

Community worship

Related Bible verses

How to apply Psalms 40:9 to your life

This verse encourages us to be bold in sharing our faith and the message of righteousness with others. In our daily lives, we should look for opportunities to speak about our beliefs, whether in casual conversations or more formal settings. By doing so, we can inspire others and fulfill our calling to be witnesses of God's truth.

Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Psalms 40:9 mean?

Psalms 40:9 expresses the speaker's commitment to openly proclaiming God's righteousness in a public setting. It emphasizes the importance of sharing one's faith and truth without hesitation, acknowledging God's awareness of their actions.

What is the significance of 'great assembly' in Psalms 40:9?

The term 'great assembly' refers to a large public gathering where the speaker feels compelled to declare God's righteousness. It highlights the importance of sharing faith in community and being vocal about one's beliefs.

How can I apply Psalms 40:9 in my life?

You can apply Psalms 40:9 by being bold in sharing your faith with others, whether in casual conversations or formal settings. Look for opportunities to speak about your beliefs and inspire those around you.

What themes are present in Psalms 40:9?

Key themes in Psalms 40:9 include the proclamation of righteousness, public expression of faith, accountability to God, and the courage to share beliefs within a community.

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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