What is the meaning of Psalms 111:5?

He hath given meat unto them that fear him: he will ever be mindful of his covenant.

Previous Verse
« Psalms 111:4
Next Verse
Psalms 111:6 »

Psalms 111:5 Bible Verse Meaning

Bible Verse Commentary: Psalms 111:5

Psalms 111:5 states, "He gives food to those who fear him; he remembers his covenant forever." This verse encapsulates themes of divine provision and faithfulness, serving as a reminder of God’s caring nature and His commitment to His people.

Understanding the Verse

The verse highlights two significant aspects of God’s character:

  • Divine Provision: The act of providing food signifies not just physical nourishment, but also spiritual sustenance. God meets the needs of those who revere Him, embodying His role as a caring provider.
  • Faithfulness to His Covenant: God’s remembrance of His covenant speaks to His unwavering commitment to His promises and the relationship He maintains with His followers. This aspect reassures believers of God's loyalty and faithfulness through time.

Commentary Insights

Matthew Henry Commentary

Matthew Henry notes that this verse is an expression of God’s providential care for His people. He emphasizes that God’s blessings are particularly abundant for those who fear Him and adhere to His covenant. Henry suggests that this fear is not merely a feeling of dread but a deep respect and reverence for God, which leads to a life aligned with His will.

Albert Barnes Commentary

Albert Barnes further elaborates that the phrase “gives food” implies not just physical sustenance but symbolizes all forms of grace and provision that God provides to His followers. He interprets the word "fear" as a profound reverence for God’s authority and goodness, suggesting that true reverence will naturally lead to receiving God’s kindness and support.

Adam Clarke Commentary

Adam Clarke states that God’s remembrance of His covenant indicates the permanence of His promises. Clarke believes this also serves as an encouragement for believers to trust in God’s unwavering support. His interpretative lens focuses on the assurance that God's promises remain unbroken, regardless of external circumstances.

Applications of Psalms 111:5

This verse speaks profoundly to the daily lives of believers, offering several practical applications:

  • Emphasizing Faith: Encourage trust in God’s provision, especially in times of need, reflecting on how God has supplied both materially and spiritually in the past.
  • Engaging in Bible Study: Utilize materials and tools for deeper explorations into biblical themes, particularly those related to dietary laws and God’s provision.
  • Community Reflection: In Bible study groups, this verse could foster discussions around God’s faithfulness and how it resonates within the community of believers.

Related Bible Cross References

  • Matthew 6:26: "Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them."
  • Philippians 4:19: "And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus."
  • Deuteronomy 7:9: "Know therefore that the Lord your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commandments."

Conclusion

Psalms 111:5 serves as a profound reminder of God’s dual role as a provider and a faithful keeper of promises. By studying the meaning of this verse further through organized Bible study tools and engaging with it in community settings, believers can gain deeper Bible verse understanding, leading to enriched spiritual lives.