Old Testament
Psalms 77:2
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
In the day of my trouble I sought the Lord; my sore ran in the night and did not stop; my soul refused to be comforted.
Compare translations
In the day of my trouble I sought the Lord: my sore ran in the night, and ceased not: my soul refused to be comforted.
What Psalms 77:2 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the psalmist expresses deep distress and anguish. During a time of trouble, he earnestly sought the Lord for help. The imagery of a sore that runs all night suggests ongoing pain and suffering that does not cease. Despite his efforts to find comfort, his soul remains in turmoil, indicating a profound sense of despair. This reflects a common human experience where, in times of crisis, one may feel isolated and unable to find solace, even when seeking divine assistance. The psalmist's honesty about his emotional state serves as a reminder that it is okay to express feelings of sorrow and struggle in our relationship with God. This verse captures the tension between seeking help and feeling overwhelmed by pain, highlighting the importance of bringing our troubles to God, even when comfort seems elusive.
How to apply Psalms 77:2 to your life
When facing difficult times, it’s important to seek God earnestly, just as the psalmist did. Acknowledge your feelings of pain and despair, and don’t hesitate to express them to God. Remember, it’s okay to struggle and feel comfortless; God is present even in our darkest moments.
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.
Illustrated scene from Ruth's story: Three Widows (Ruth 1:1–5)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Ruth
Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. 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.
Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
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 PlansAsk AI about Psalms 77:2
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 77:2
Related Bible verses
Key themes
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 77:2 mean?
Psalms 77:2 expresses the psalmist's deep anguish during a time of trouble. He sought the Lord for help, but despite his efforts, he felt overwhelmed by pain and unable to find comfort.
What is the meaning of 'my sore ran in the night' in Psalms 77:2?
The phrase 'my sore ran in the night' symbolizes ongoing pain and suffering that continues without relief. It illustrates the intensity of the psalmist's distress during his darkest moments.
How can I apply Psalms 77:2 to my life?
You can apply Psalms 77:2 by being honest about your feelings of pain and despair when facing difficulties. It encourages you to seek God earnestly and express your struggles, knowing that it's okay to feel overwhelmed.
What themes are present in Psalms 77:2?
Key themes in Psalms 77:2 include seeking God in times of trouble, experiencing emotional pain and despair, and the importance of honesty in prayer. It reflects the tension between seeking help and feeling isolated.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.