What is the meaning of Psalms 85:13?

Righteousness shall go before him; and shall set us in the way of his steps.

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Psalms 85:13 Bible Verse Meaning

Bible Verse Meaning: Psalms 85:13

Psalms 85:13 states, "Righteousness shall go before him; and shall set us in the way of his steps." This verse encapsulates profound insights into the nature of divine guidance and the relationship between righteousness and our walk in faith.

Overview of Psalms 85

The entire chapter of Psalms 85 reflects a yearning for restoration and peace from God. It highlights themes of forgiveness, mercy, and the desire for God's presence among His people. Specifically, verse 13 serves as a fitting conclusion to the psalm, indicating the path believers are called to follow.

Commentary Insights

Matthew Henry's Commentary

Henry notes that righteousness is personified as going before God, emphasizing that God's ways are aligned with His character, which is inherently just and good. The verse illustrates that when God leads, righteousness is the precursor to His actions, paving the way for believers to follow in His footsteps.

Albert Barnes' Notes

Barnes emphasizes the assurance that righteousness will lead the way. He interprets this as a promise that God will guide His people through His righteous standards. The path laid out by God, through His righteousness, brings believers closer to Him and to a life reflective of His character.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Clarke expands on the metaphor of following in God's steps, suggesting that the "way of his steps" signifies a journey that believers embark upon when they align their lives with God's will. He highlights that righteousness is not just a destination but a continual process of living out God’s truth in daily life.

Key Themes and Lessons

  • Divine Guidance: The importance of seeking God’s righteousness as the foundation for guidance in our lives.
  • The Role of Righteousness: Understanding that true righteousness comes from God and is critical for our spiritual journey.
  • Following God's Steps: A call to emulate God's ways in our conduct and decisions.
  • Integration of Righteousness in Daily Life: The necessity of incorporating God’s standards into our everyday actions and thoughts.

Application for Believers

As we interpret Psalms 85:13, it's essential to reflect on how this verse pertains to our lives. Application involves:

  • Seeking to understand and implement God's righteousness in our daily circumstances.
  • Being mindful of the steps we take and their alignment with God's will.
  • Engaging in prayer and study to discern how to better follow the path laid out by God.
  • Encouraging one another in Bible study groups to explore how to live righteously.

Related Bible References

  • Psalm 89:14: "Justice and judgment are the habitation of thy throne: mercy and truth shall go before thy face."
  • Isaiah 45:23: "I have sworn by myself, the word is gone out of my mouth in righteousness, and shall not return, That unto me every knee shall bow, every tongue shall swear."
  • Romans 14:17: "For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost."

Conclusion

Psalms 85:13 enriches our understanding of how righteousness serves as both a guiding principle and an active component of our faith journey. Through the insights of respected commentaries, we gain a deeper appreciation of how this verse calls individuals to align their lives with God's righteousness and follow His direction.