Old Testament
Psalms 89:22
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
This verse expresses a promise of protection for the one who is faithful to God.
- Author
- David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
- Written
- Around 1000-500 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and worship
- Original Audience
- Worshipers of Israel
The enemy shall not exact upon him, nor the son of wickedness afflict him.
The enemy shall not exact upon him; nor the son of wickedness afflict him.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse expresses a promise of protection for the one who is faithful to God. It assures that enemies and wicked individuals will not have power over him. The 'enemy' represents any force or person that seeks to harm or undermine, while the 'son of wickedness' symbolizes those who act unjustly. The verse emphasizes God's commitment to safeguarding His chosen ones from harm and oppression. It reflects a broader theme found throughout the Psalms, where the psalmist often seeks refuge in God's strength and protection. This assurance can provide comfort to believers, reminding them that despite challenges and adversities, they are not alone and that God stands as a defender against all forms of evil. The verse encourages trust in God's ability to shield and support His people, reinforcing the idea that faithfulness to God brings divine protection.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Psalms 89:22 to your life
In our daily lives, we can find comfort in knowing that God protects us from harm and evil influences. When facing challenges or opposition, we should remember to trust in God's strength and seek His guidance. This assurance can empower us to stand firm in our faith, knowing we are not alone.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Psalms 89:22 mean for believers today?
Psalms 89:22 reassures believers that God provides protection against enemies and wickedness. It emphasizes that those who remain faithful to God can trust in His safeguarding presence. This verse encourages believers to rely on God's strength in times of trouble, reminding them that they are not alone in their struggles.
How can I apply Psalms 89:22 in my life?
To apply Psalms 89:22, focus on building your faith and trust in God, especially during challenging times. When facing opposition or feeling threatened, remind yourself of God's promise to protect you. Engage in prayer, seek guidance from scripture, and surround yourself with supportive community to reinforce your faith and reliance on God’s protection.
What does 'the son of wickedness' refer to in this verse?
In Psalms 89:22, 'the son of wickedness' symbolizes those who act unjustly or oppose God's people. This phrase highlights the presence of evil forces that seek to harm the faithful. The verse reassures believers that such individuals or forces will not prevail against them, as God stands as their protector.
How does Psalms 89:22 relate to other verses about protection?
Psalms 89:22 aligns with other biblical verses that speak of God's protection, such as Psalm 91:1-2, which emphasizes finding refuge in God. Both passages highlight the theme of divine safeguarding for those who trust in Him. Together, they reinforce the message that God is a defender against all forms of evil and adversity.

The Book of Psalms
Psalm 1: Two Paths
This psalm describes two paths. The blessed person does not follow the counsel of the ungodly, does not stand in the way of sinners, and does not sit among the scornful. Instead, this person delights in the law of the LORD and thinks on it day and night.
Unlock the full Psalms summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Psalms — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 150 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Psalms summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.