What is the meaning of Psalms 86:13?

For great is thy mercy toward me: and thou hast delivered my soul from the lowest hell.

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Psalms 86:13 Bible Verse Meaning

Bible Verse Meaning and Commentary for Psalms 86:13

Psalms 86:13 states: "For great is your love toward me; you have delivered me from the depths of the grave."

This verse emphasizes the depth of God's love and the salvation He bestows upon those who seek Him. Here, we explore the combined insights from Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke to provide a comprehensive understanding of this scripture.

Comprehensive Analysis

Understanding God's Love

According to Matthew Henry, this verse highlights the incredible magnitude of God's love for His people. He suggests that the psalmist is marveling at the personal and profound nature of God's affection, which manifests in deliverance from despair and death.

Albert Barnes expands on this idea, noting that the love of God is not just a passive feeling; it actively delivers the psalmist from dire situations. Barnes points out that God's love is a source of hope and strength, especially in moments of great need.

Adam Clarke further emphasizes the depth of this love by drawing attention to the contrast between the depths of the grave and the heights of divine mercy. He suggests that realizing the extent of God’s deliverance leads to deep gratitude and worship.

Deliverance from Despair

The mention of being "delivered... from the depths of the grave" invokes the theme of salvation. Matthew Henry interprets this phrase as not only referring to physical death but also to spiritual and emotional distress. The grave symbolizes the lowest point of despair, illustrating that God's love reaches even into the darkest moments.

Albert Barnes notes that this deliverance represents a complete rescue, suggesting that God not only saves us from eternal separation but also from everyday struggles and adversities. This comprehensive salvation is a vital part of understanding God's character.

Adam Clarke explains that acknowledging this deliverance calls for an appropriate response of praise and worship. The psalmist expresses a personal connection with God, invoking a sense of communal worship as an acknowledgment of God's saving acts.

Practical Application

This verse encourages believers to reflect on God's love and the depth of His deliverance in their lives. It can serve as a source of comfort and inspiration, particularly during challenging times.

  • Affirmation of Faith: Believers are encouraged to affirm their faith in God's ongoing love and support.
  • Encouragement in Prayer: The psalmist's acknowledgment provides a model for sincere prayer and worship.
  • Guidance for Community: It underscores the importance of sharing testimonies of God's goodness within Bible study groups.

Cross References

For further study, consider these related Bible verses:

  • Psalm 130:1-2: “Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord.”
  • Romans 5:8: “But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
  • 1 John 3:1: “See what kind of love the Father has given to us.”

Conclusion

In summary, Psalms 86:13 encapsulates profound biblical truths regarding God's unwavering love and deliverance. Understanding this verse encourages deeper engagement with Scripture and fosters personal reflection about God’s merciful nature. Through contemplative Bible study and ongoing exploration of scripture, believers can grasp the significance of such verses and their applicability in daily life.