Old Testament

Psalms 67:4

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

Let the nations be glad and sing for joy, for you shall judge the peoples righteously and govern the nations on earth. Selah.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

O let the nations be glad and sing for joy: for thou shalt judge the people righteously, and govern the nations upon earth. Selah.

What Psalms 67:4 means

Plain-English insight for readers

This verse expresses a joyful call for all nations to rejoice because God will judge fairly and rule over the earth. It emphasizes the hope that comes from God's righteous governance, suggesting that His justice brings peace and happiness to all people. The use of 'Selah' indicates a pause for reflection, inviting readers to consider the significance of God's role as a just ruler. The verse highlights the universal nature of God's authority, implying that His judgment is not limited to one group but extends to all nations. This encourages a sense of unity among diverse peoples, as they can all find joy in the assurance of God's righteous leadership. The call to sing for joy reflects an active response to God's goodness, suggesting that worship and celebration are appropriate reactions to His promises. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the hope and joy that come from trusting in God's just and loving governance over the world.

How to apply Psalms 67:4 to your life

In our daily lives, we can find joy in knowing that God is just and governs the world with righteousness. This assurance can inspire us to celebrate His goodness and encourage others to trust in His leadership. We can also promote unity and joy among different communities by sharing this message of hope.

Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary

Explore more of the Bible

Learn the Bible through its people and places

Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

A painting of Daniel and his three friends eating vegetables and drinking water in a Babylonian hall, while other young men eat the king's food and drink wine and the steward looks on

Illustrated scene from Daniel's story: Faithful at the King's Table (Daniel 1:1–21)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

Daniel

A ruined stone tower with a doorway at Burj Beitin, lit by low evening sun under a cloudy sky.

Photo: Bukvoed, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 4.0. Source. Location: Burj Beitin, Beitin, Ramallah and al-Bireh Governorate, West Bank. Resized for the web.

Explore the places of the Bible

See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.

Bethel

Where Jacob dreamed of a stairway to heaven and met God.

Get full access with one subscription

Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.

See Plans

Ask AI about Psalms 67:4

Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.

Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter

Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.

Keep studying Psalms 67:4

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 67:4 mean?

Psalms 67:4 expresses a joyful invitation for all nations to rejoice because God will judge fairly and govern the earth. It highlights the hope and peace that come from trusting in God's righteous leadership.

What is the significance of 'Selah' in Psalms 67:4?

The term 'Selah' in Psalms 67:4 indicates a pause for reflection, encouraging readers to contemplate the importance of God's just governance and the joy it brings to all nations.

What themes are present in Psalms 67:4?

Psalms 67:4 includes themes of joy, righteous judgment, divine governance, unity among nations, worship, and hope, emphasizing the positive impact of God's leadership on humanity.

How can we apply Psalms 67:4 in our lives?

We can apply Psalms 67:4 by celebrating God's justice in our daily lives and sharing the message of hope and unity it conveys with others in our communities.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.