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
CBTClear Bible Translation

Return, O LORD, how long? And let it repent you concerning your servants.

KJVKing James Version

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.

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
Book Summary

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.

Premium

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

Best value • Save over 90%

or

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.