King James Version

What Does Psalms 37:39 Mean?

Psalms 37:39 in the King James Version says “But the salvation of the righteous is of the LORD: he is their strength in the time of trouble.” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 37 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“But the salvation of the righteous is of the LORD: he is their strength in the time of trouble.”

Psalms 37:39 · KJV

SalvationStrength

Context

37

Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright: for the end of that man is peace.

38

But the transgressors shall be destroyed together: the end of the wicked shall be cut off.

39

But the salvation of the righteous is of the LORD: he is their strength in the time of trouble.

40

And the LORD shall help them, and deliver them: he shall deliver them from the wicked, and save them, because they trust in him.

Read Psalms 37 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
But the salvation of the righteous is of the LORD (וּתְשׁוּעַת צַדִּיקִים מֵיְהוָה, u-teshu'at tzaddikim me-YHWH)—Teshu'ah (salvation) comes exclusively me-YHWH (from the LORD), excluding all human sources. He is their strength in the time of trouble (מָעוּזָּם בְּעֵת צָרָה, ma'uzzam be-et tzarah)—Ma'oz means stronghold, fortress; tzarah is distress, tribulation.

After describing both destinies, David identifies the ultimate source: YHWH himself. Salvation isn't self-generated through works but received from God. This anticipates Ephesians 2:8-9. God himself becomes the believer's fortress. Righteousness doesn't eliminate suffering but ensures divine presence within it.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Israel's entire history demonstrated dependence on YHWH for deliverance: Egyptian plagues, Red Sea crossing, wilderness provision, conquest victories, exile return. No military might or diplomatic alliance proved sufficient. The name Yeshua (Jesus) means "YHWH saves," embodying this perfectly.

Reflection Questions

  1. In what ways are you tempted to seek salvation or security from sources other than God?
  2. How have you experienced God as a fortress during specific times of trouble and distress?
  3. How does recognizing salvation as exclusively "of the LORD" affect evangelism and discipleship?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 6 words
וּתְשׁוּעַ֣ת1 of 6

“But the salvation”

H8668

rescue (literal or figurative, persons, national or spiritual)

צַ֭דִּיקִים2 of 6

“of the righteous”

H6662

just

מֵיְהוָ֑ה3 of 6

“is of the LORD”

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

מָֽ֝עוּזָּ֗ם4 of 6

“he is their strength”

H4581

a fortified place; figuratively, a defense

בְּעֵ֣ת5 of 6

“in the time”

H6256

time, especially (adverb with preposition) now, when, etc

צָרָֽה׃6 of 6

“of trouble”

H6869

transitively, a female rival

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Psalms. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Psalms 37:39 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Psalms 37:39 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Psalms 9:9Psalms 91:15Isaiah 12:2Psalms 3:82 Timothy 4:17Psalms 46:1

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