Old Testament

Psalms 69:18

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

ClearClear Bible Translation

Draw near to my soul, and redeem it. Deliver me because of my enemies.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

Draw nigh unto my soul, and redeem it: deliver me because of mine enemies.

What Psalms 69:18 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, the psalmist is pleading for God to come close and save him from his troubles. The term "draw near" indicates a desire for God's presence and intervention in his life. The psalmist feels surrounded by enemies and is asking for redemption, which means being rescued or saved from these adversaries. This reflects a deep sense of vulnerability and a recognition that only God can provide the help he needs. The urgency in the plea highlights the seriousness of his situation, emphasizing the need for divine assistance. The psalmist's request for deliverance shows faith in God's ability to protect and redeem, even in dire circumstances. This verse encapsulates a common theme in the Psalms: the cry for help in times of distress, showcasing the relationship between the believer and God, where trust and reliance on divine power are paramount.

How to apply Psalms 69:18 to your life

When facing challenges or feeling overwhelmed by adversaries, we can turn to God in prayer, just as the psalmist did. Seeking God's presence and help can provide comfort and strength. Remember that you are not alone in your struggles; God is always near and ready to assist.

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 the Israelites enslaved in Egypt

Illustrated scene from Moses's story: Israel Enslaved in Egypt (Exodus 1:8–22)

Meet the people of the Bible

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

Moses

Walls uncovered by archaeologists on the mound of Tell es-Sultan, with palm trees in the distance.

Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, 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.

Jericho

The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.

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 69:18

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 69:18

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 69:18 mean?

Psalms 69:18 expresses a heartfelt plea from the psalmist asking God to come close and rescue him from his enemies. It highlights the psalmist's vulnerability and reliance on God's power for deliverance.

What is the meaning of 'draw near' in Psalms 69:18?

In Psalms 69:18, 'draw near' signifies a deep desire for God's presence and intervention in the psalmist's life, indicating a longing for support during times of trouble.

How can I apply Psalms 69:18 in my life?

You can apply Psalms 69:18 by turning to God in prayer when facing challenges, seeking His presence and assistance, and remembering that you are not alone in your struggles.

What themes are present in Psalms 69:18?

Psalms 69:18 encompasses themes of divine intervention, redemption, vulnerability, faith, and the plea for help, illustrating the relationship between the believer and God.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

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