Old Testament
Psalms 90:17
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 asking for God's presence and favor to be evident in their lives.
- Author
- David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
- Written
- Around 1000-500 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and worship
- Original Audience
- Worshipers of Israel
And let the beauty of the LORD our God be upon us, and establish the work of our hands upon us; yes, the work of our hands, establish it.
And let the beauty of the LORD our God be upon us: and establish thou the work of our hands upon us; yea, the work of our hands establish thou it.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the psalmist is asking for God's presence and favor to be evident in their lives. The phrase "the beauty of the LORD" suggests a desire for God's glory and goodness to shine upon them, influencing their actions and work. The psalmist also seeks God's help in establishing their efforts, recognizing that human endeavors need divine support to be truly successful. This reflects a humble acknowledgment that while they can work hard, it is ultimately God who gives meaning and permanence to their labor. The repetition of the request emphasizes the importance of God's blessing in their lives, highlighting a deep reliance on Him for guidance and success in their tasks. Overall, this verse encapsulates a prayer for divine favor and the establishment of fruitful work, underscoring the relationship between human effort and divine assistance.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Psalms 90:17 to your life
In our daily lives, we can apply this verse by seeking God's presence in our work and asking for His guidance. Before starting any task, we should pray for His blessing, recognizing that our efforts are more fruitful when aligned with His will. This encourages us to work diligently while trusting in God's support.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Psalms 90:17 mean?
Psalms 90:17 expresses a desire for God's beauty and favor to be evident in our lives. It emphasizes the need for divine support in our work, acknowledging that true success comes from God's blessing.
What is the meaning of 'the beauty of the LORD' in Psalms 90:17?
'The beauty of the LORD' refers to God's glory and goodness. The psalmist is asking for this divine presence to influence their lives and work, highlighting the importance of God's favor.
How can I apply Psalms 90:17 in my life?
You can apply this verse by praying for God's guidance and blessing before starting any task. Recognizing that your efforts are more fruitful with His support encourages diligent work aligned with His will.
Why does Psalms 90:17 repeat the request for God to establish our work?
The repetition emphasizes the importance of God's blessing in our lives and work. It highlights a deep reliance on God for guidance and success, reinforcing the idea that our efforts need divine support.

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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