Old Testament
Psalms 90:13
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, the psalmist is pleading with God to return and show mercy to His people.
- Author
- David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
- Written
- Around 1000-500 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and worship
- Original Audience
- Worshipers of Israel
Return, O LORD, how long? And let it repent you concerning your servants.
Return, O LORD, how long? and let it repent thee concerning thy servants.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the psalmist is pleading with God to return and show mercy to His people. The phrase 'how long?' expresses a deep sense of urgency and longing for God's presence and intervention. The psalmist acknowledges the suffering and trials faced by God's servants and seeks divine compassion. The use of 'repent' here indicates a desire for God to change His mind about the judgment or hardships that have befallen them. This reflects a belief in God's ability to alter circumstances and provide relief. The verse captures the human experience of waiting for divine help and the hope that God will respond to their cries. It emphasizes the relationship between God and His people, highlighting the need for divine mercy and the importance of seeking God in times of distress.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Psalms 90:13 to your life
In times of distress, we can turn to God with our concerns, just as the psalmist did. This verse encourages us to express our feelings of urgency and need for divine intervention. It reminds us to seek God's mercy and to trust in His timing and compassion, even when we feel overwhelmed.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Psalms 90:13 mean?
Psalms 90:13 expresses a plea to God for mercy and intervention. The psalmist is asking how long they must wait for God's help and is seeking a change in God's judgment towards His people.
What is the meaning of 'how long?' in Psalms 90:13?
The phrase 'how long?' in Psalms 90:13 conveys a deep sense of urgency and longing for God's presence. It reflects the psalmist's distress and desire for immediate divine intervention.
What is the significance of 'repent' in Psalms 90:13?
In Psalms 90:13, 'repent' signifies a request for God to change His mind about the hardships faced by His servants. It highlights the belief that God can alter circumstances and show mercy.
What themes are present in Psalms 90:13?
Psalms 90:13 includes themes of divine mercy, urgency in prayer, human suffering, and hope in God. It emphasizes the importance of seeking God's presence during difficult times.

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.
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