Old Testament
Psalms 89:38
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But you have cast off and abhorred; you have been angry with your anointed.
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But thou hast cast off and abhorred, thou hast been wroth with thine anointed.
What Psalms 89:38 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the psalmist expresses a deep sense of abandonment and rejection by God. The term "cast off" suggests being pushed away or discarded, while "abhorred" indicates a strong dislike or disgust. The phrase "angry with your anointed" refers to God's chosen leader, likely King David or his lineage. This reflects a moment of crisis where the psalmist feels that God has turned away from those He has chosen, leading to feelings of despair and confusion. The emotional weight of this verse highlights the struggle between faith and the experience of divine silence or absence. It serves as a reminder that even the chosen ones can feel forsaken, prompting a deeper exploration of faith during difficult times. The psalmist's lament is a call to remember God's past faithfulness, even when current circumstances seem bleak, and to seek understanding in the midst of suffering.
How to apply Psalms 89:38 to your life
When feeling abandoned or rejected, remember that even the faithful can experience doubt and despair. Use these moments to seek God earnestly, reflecting on His past faithfulness. Engage in prayer and community support to navigate through feelings of isolation and to strengthen your faith during tough times.
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 89:38 mean?
Psalms 89:38 expresses feelings of abandonment by God, highlighting a sense of rejection and anger towards His chosen leader. The psalmist feels that God has turned away from those He has anointed, leading to deep emotional turmoil.
What is the meaning of 'cast off' in Psalms 89:38?
'Cast off' in Psalms 89:38 means to be pushed away or discarded. It signifies a feeling of being rejected by God, which contributes to the psalmist's sense of despair.
What does 'angry with your anointed' refer to in this verse?
The phrase 'angry with your anointed' refers to God's displeasure with His chosen leader, likely King David or his descendants. It indicates a moment of crisis where the psalmist feels that God's favor has been withdrawn.
What themes are present in Psalms 89:38?
Psalms 89:38 includes themes of divine abandonment, the anger of God, the struggles of chosen leaders, and the emotional turmoil of faith in crisis. It reflects the tension between feeling forsaken and remembering God's past faithfulness.
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