Psalms 17:14 - Overview

Psalms 17:14 states:

"From men which are thy hand, O Lord, from men of the world, which have their portion in this life, and whose belly thou fillest with thy hid treasure: they are full of children, and leave the rest of their substance to their babes."

This verse reflects David's plea for protection from those who are ungodly and focused on the temporal gains of this world.

Meaning and Interpretation

This verse can be understood within the broader context of Psalm 17, which is a prayer for deliverance and protection. David contrasts the transient nature of earthly wealth with the enduring value of spiritual righteousness.

• Matthew Henry's Commentary:

Henry emphasizes that David is aware of the dangers posed by those who are entirely focused on this life. The "men of the world" are depicted as being engrossed in material wealth, thriving on it while neglecting their spiritual state. David asks God for protection from their malicious intentions, as their motives are driven by selfish desires.

• Albert Barnes' Notes:

Barnes notes that David observes how these people prosper temporally, enjoying their wealth and abundance while often opposing God. He sees their material success as a temptation to abandon faith. The verse reveals the stark contrast between those with worldly success and those who seek after God’s righteousness.

• Adam Clarke's Commentary:

Clarke highlights the distinction between the worldly and the righteous. He describes how the “men which are thy hand” implies divine control even over the wicked. David recognizes that while these men seem to flourish, their end is not secure, reinforcing the ultimate justice of God over earthly destinies.

Cross-References

• Psalm 73:12-14: "Behold, these are the ungodly, who prosper in the world; they increase in riches." David reflects on the apparent success of the wicked.
• Proverbs 11:28: "He that trusteth in his riches shall fall: but the righteous shall flourish as a branch." This verse underlines the fleeting nature of material wealth.
• James 5:1-3: "Go to now, ye rich men, weep and howl for your miseries that shall come upon you." A warning about the transient joy of wealth.
• Matthew 6:19-21: "Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth...but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven." Highlighting the importance of spiritual over worldly treasures.
• 1 Timothy 6:9-10: "But they that will be rich fall into temptation... for the love of money is the root of all evil." Warns against the dangers of seeking material wealth.
• Psalm 49:16-17: "Be not thou afraid when one is made rich... for when he dieth he shall carry nothing away." Reinforcing the futility of wealth at death.
• Ecclesiastes 2:26: "For God giveth to a man that is good in his sight wisdom, and knowledge, and joy: but to the sinner he giveth travail." Points to the eternal rewards of wisdom over temporal gain.

Thematic Connections

This verse is significant in the context of the broader Biblical theme of wealth and righteousness. It emphasizes the transient glory of worldly possessions and the importance of focusing on spiritual growth and divine favor. Similar themes can be found throughout the Bible, demonstrating an overarching narrative about the dangers of materialism and the ultimate superiority of spiritual fulfillment.

Application for Readers

For those seeking to understand the meaning of Psalms 17:14, the insights from various commentaries illustrate the importance of distinguishing between earthly treasures and heavenly rewards. When studying the Bible, it can be beneficial to utilize tools for Bible cross-referencing, allowing for deeper exploration of related themes. Such connections can enhance one's comprehension and application of spiritual principles.

Conclusion

In summary, Psalms 17:14 serves as a poignant reminder of the futility of pursuing material wealth at the expense of spiritual integrity. By examining the cross-references and insights from notable theologians, readers can gain a more profound understanding of the biblical message regarding wealth, God's providence, and the moral responsibilities of believers. Utilize the mentioned resources and cross-references to further enrich your study of Scripture, enabling a comprehensive grasp of the Bible's teachings.