Psalms 69:13 - Meaning and Interpretation

Bible Verse: Psalms 69:13 "But as for me, my prayer is to you, O LORD. At an acceptable time, O God, in the abundance of your steadfast love answer me in your saving faithfulness."

Overview

Psalms 69 is a penitential psalm, expressing profound sorrow and a cry for help. In verse 13, the psalmist transitions from lament to prayer, emphasizing a deep personal relationship with God.

Combined Insights from Public Domain Commentaries

This verse has been examined by various theologians, each providing insights that help in understanding its meaning and significance:

• Matthew Henry: Henry emphasizes the psalmist’s reliance on God’s steadfast love and faithfulness. He points out that prayer is the means through which believers connect to God, especially in times of distress. The verse suggests that the psalmist seeks God's help at the right time, highlighting God’s timing as perfect.
• Albert Barnes: Barnes notes that the phrase "acceptable time" refers to the right time for God to intervene. He interprets this as a request for God to respond in mercy, reflecting an understanding of God’s character as faithful and compassionate. The psalmist’s prayer is not just for relief, but for salvation through God's enduring love.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke reflects on the psalmist's situation, which is one of great distress and need. He highlights the importance of faith in God’s goodness and timing. Clarke presents a broader theological argument that the steadfast love of God is a consistent theme throughout Scripture, serving as the foundation for believer’s hope and assurance in prayer.

Theological Significance

The emphasis on “steadfast love” (chesed in Hebrew) speaks to God’s unchanging nature and covenant faithfulness. This understanding is central to the Old Testament paradigm of God’s relationship with His people.

Cross-References for Psalms 69:13

For deeper exploration, consider the following Bible cross-references:

• Psalm 25:14: "The friendship of the Lord is for those who fear him, and he makes known to them his covenant."
• Psalm 51:17: "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise."
• Isaiah 62:8: "The LORD has sworn by his right hand and by his mighty arm: I will not again give your grain to be food for your enemies."
• Romans 5:5: "And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us."
• 2 Corinthians 6:2: "For he says, 'In the time of my favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you.' I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation!"
• Luke 18:7: "And will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off?"
• Hebrews 4:16: "Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need."

Connections between Bible Verses

This verse and its context provide fertile ground for exploring thematic Bible verse connections regarding God’s love and faithfulness. Notably, links can be drawn between the despair voiced in Psalms and the hope portrayed in the New Testament.

Relating Themes

• Despair and Hope: The transition from lament to hope in Psalms parallels the New Testament teachings on hope through faith.
• Prayer: The importance of earnest prayer is a recurring theme that spans both the Old and New Testaments, inviting believers to seek God persistently.
• God’s Timing: Understanding that God’s timing in responding to prayers is essential to the faith journey is a fundamental aspect throughout Scriptures.

In Summary

Psalms 69:13 encapsulates key themes of prayer, God’s steadfast love, and the importance of divine timing. The insights gathered through commentaries provide a layered explanation that enhances understanding of the text’s depth and its application to the believer's life.

Further Study Recommendations

For those looking to deepen their understanding, consider exploring tools for Bible cross-referencing, such as a Bible concordance or a comprehensive Bible cross-reference guide. Engaging in cross-reference Bible study can illuminate connections between verses, enriching your spiritual journey.