Old Testament
Psalms 86:15
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
But you, O Lord, are a God full of compassion, and gracious, longsuffering, and plenteous in mercy and truth.
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But thou, O Lord, art a God full of compassion, and gracious, long suffering, and plenteous in mercy and truth.
What Psalms 86:15 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the psalmist acknowledges the character of God, emphasizing His compassion and grace. The term 'compassion' indicates that God cares deeply for His creation and feels empathy for their struggles. 'Gracious' suggests that God gives blessings freely, not based on what we deserve. 'Longsuffering' means that God is patient, enduring our shortcomings and failures without immediate judgment. The phrase 'plenteous in mercy and truth' highlights that God's mercy is abundant, and He is faithful to His promises. This verse reassures believers that despite their flaws, God is always ready to forgive and support them. It reflects a deep understanding of God's nature, encouraging trust and reliance on Him during difficult times. The psalmist's recognition of these attributes serves as a reminder of the loving relationship between God and His people, inviting them to approach Him with confidence and hope.
How to apply Psalms 86:15 to your life
Understanding God's compassionate and gracious nature can transform how we interact with others. We should strive to embody these qualities in our own lives, showing patience and mercy to those around us, reflecting God's love in our actions and attitudes.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary
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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 86:15 mean?
Psalms 86:15 highlights God's character as compassionate, gracious, patient, and abundant in mercy and truth. It reassures believers that God cares for them deeply and is always ready to forgive and support them.
What is the meaning of 'compassion' in Psalms 86:15?
In Psalms 86:15, 'compassion' refers to God's deep care and empathy for His creation, indicating that He understands and feels for our struggles and hardships.
What does 'longsuffering' mean in Psalms 86:15?
'Longsuffering' in Psalms 86:15 means that God is patient and tolerant, enduring our mistakes and shortcomings without rushing to judgment.
How can I apply Psalms 86:15 in my life?
You can apply Psalms 86:15 by embodying God's qualities of compassion and grace in your interactions with others, showing patience and mercy in your relationships.
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