Psalms 21:4 - Bible Verse Meaning and Commentary

Verse: Psalms 21:4 - "He asked life of thee, and thou gavest it him, even length of days for ever and ever."

Understanding Psalms 21:4

This verse encapsulates a moment of gratitude and divine blessing. It highlights the request for life made by the king, presumed to be David, and portrays God's faithful response in granting not just life, but an abundance of days.

Insights from Public Domain Commentaries

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry emphasizes the personal relationship between God and the king, noting that the request for life is not mere survival but a plea for a blessed and prosperous existence. He reflects on the idea that true life comes through God’s favor and that the longevity promised here signifies not only physical life but a spiritual vitality.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes focuses on the implications of "length of days", suggesting that it refers to the blessings of life that culminate in eternal life through faith. He also suggests that this verse reveals God's benevolence in granting the desires of His people, particularly leaders who seek to lead their people righteously.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke expands on the correlation between the king’s request and God's answer, interpreting this as a foundation for understanding God's promises of longevity as a symbol of His covenant. He posits that the divine gift of life is a direct response to faithful service and the preservation of a righteous legacy.

Biblical Exegesis of Psalms 21:4

This verse serves as a powerful reminder of God's responsiveness to prayer. The request for "life" not only pertains to the physical aspect but also implies spiritual richness and fulfillment:

• Prayer and Response: This verse illustrates how God honors the desires of the faithful. The act of asking for life reflects an acknowledgment of dependency on God, which is a significant aspect of Bible verse interpretations.
• Significance of Long Life: The phrase "length of days" conveys the notion of blessed existence. In Biblical context, this often signifies God's pleasure and favor, underlining the importance of seeking a life that is pleasing to Him.
• God's Faithfulness: The response from God to grant "life" can be seen as a testament to His character—merciful and generous. This speaks to the nature of divine grace and the fulfillment of promises in Scripture.

Application of Psalms 21:4 to Daily Life

Understanding this Scripture encourages believers to express their desires before God, trusting His goodness. Here are some key applications:

• Life in Fullness: Believers are encouraged to seek not just existence but a life enriched with purpose and peace, reflective of God’s blessings.
• Prayerful Approach: This verse prompts individuals to engage regularly in prayer, asking for guidance and blessings on their lives, reinforcing the significance of maintaining communication with God.
• Expectation of Blessing: It inspires confidence in God's ability and willingness to provide for what we genuinely seek, reminding us that He knows our needs before we even articulate them.

Related Bible Cross References

• Psalms 34:12-14: Emphasizing the pursuit of life and good days.
• Proverbs 3:1-2: Speaking of length of days and peace as rewards for keeping God's commandments.
• John 10:10: Where Jesus speaks of the life He gives as abundant life.

Conclusion

In summary, Psalms 21:4 invites readers to explore the richness of their relationship with God, the blessings that accompany faithful requests, and the profound significance of life as granted by divine favor. As we engage with Scripture, understanding such verses deepens our appreciation of biblical truths and enhances our personal faith journey.

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