Summary of Psalms 69:29

This verse expresses a deep sense of personal lamentation, highlighting the psalmist's poverty and sorrow. It is a plea for divine intervention and salvation, emphasizing the need for God's grace to elevate him above his current struggles.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry: Henry explains that the psalmist is in a state of despair, marked by physical and spiritual deprivation. The plea for salvation demonstrates both humility and faith in God's ability to rescue from dire circumstances. Henry notes that the recognition of one's lowly state is crucial for receiving divine help.
• Albert Barnes: Barnes translates the sorrowful condition into a broader context of suffering among the people of God. He interprets the request for salvation not just in a personal sense but as a yearning for restoration to a position of honor and favor with God. It emphasizes reliance on God's mercy in times of distress.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke elaborates on the dual aspect of being 'poor' and 'sorrowful.' He suggests that this verse resonates with the experiences of Christ and believers now who suffer for righteousness. Clarke links it to the necessity of divine support when human strength is insufficient. He emphasizes the concept of being "set up on high" as not only physical restoration but spiritual elevation through divine grace.

Related Bible Cross References

• Psalm 34:18: "The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit."
• Isaiah 61:1: "The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me because the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor."
• Matthew 5:3: "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."
• 1 Peter 5:10: "And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you."
• Psalm 71:20: "You who have made me see many troubles and calamities will revive me again; from the depths of the earth you will bring me up again."
• James 4:10: "Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you."
• 2 Corinthians 12:9: "But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me."

Thematic Connections

The themes in Psalm 69:29 highlight various biblical ideals, including:

• The call for salvation and restoration in times of trouble.
• The acknowledgment of one's need for divine help.
• The concept of humility preceding exaltation by God.
• The understanding of sorrow and its transformative potential.

Practical Applications

Reflecting on Psalms 69:29 can inspire individuals facing difficulties. Believers are encouraged to:

• Recognize their need for spiritual and physical assistance.
• Embrace humility as a pathway to receiving God's grace.
• Pray earnestly for God’s salvation and elevation during times of distress.
• Seek community support within faith to uplift one another.