Old Testament
Psalms 86:5
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
For you, Lord, are good and ready to forgive, and plenteous in mercy to all who call upon you.
Compare translations
For thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive; and plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon thee.
What Psalms 86:5 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse emphasizes the character of God as inherently good and forgiving. It reassures believers that God is always ready to forgive those who seek Him. The phrase 'plenteous in mercy' highlights the abundance of God's compassion and kindness towards everyone who calls on Him. This reflects a core aspect of God's nature: His willingness to extend grace and mercy to those who repent and turn to Him. The verse encourages individuals to approach God with confidence, knowing that He is not only willing to forgive but also eager to do so. It serves as a reminder that no matter how far one may have strayed, God's mercy is always available to those who earnestly seek Him. This assurance can bring comfort and hope, reinforcing the belief that God is a loving and forgiving presence in the lives of His followers.
How to apply Psalms 86:5 to your life
When facing guilt or shame, remember that God is always ready to forgive. Approach Him in prayer, confess your shortcomings, and trust in His abundant mercy. This practice can lead to healing and a renewed relationship with God.
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 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
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 PlansAsk AI about Psalms 86:5
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 86:5
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 86:5 mean?
Psalms 86:5 highlights God's nature as good and forgiving. It assures believers that God is always ready to forgive those who sincerely seek Him, emphasizing His abundant mercy.
What is the meaning of 'plenteous in mercy' in Psalms 86:5?
'Plenteous in mercy' means that God's compassion and kindness are abundant and overflowing. It signifies that He is generous in offering forgiveness to everyone who calls upon Him.
How can I apply Psalms 86:5 in my life?
You can apply Psalms 86:5 by remembering that God is always ready to forgive. When you feel guilt or shame, pray, confess your mistakes, and trust in His mercy for healing and restoration.
Why is forgiveness important in Psalms 86:5?
Forgiveness is important in Psalms 86:5 because it reflects God's willingness to restore relationships with those who seek Him. It reassures believers that no matter their past, they can always return to God for mercy.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.