What is the meaning of Psalms 90:13?

Return, O LORD, how long? and let it repent thee concerning thy servants.

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Psalms 90:13 Bible Verse Meaning

Psalms 90:13 - Bible Verse Meaning and Commentary

Verse: "Return, O LORD; how long? and let it repent thee concerning thy servants."

The verse Psalms 90:13 speaks from a heart that acknowledges the brevity of life and the need for divine mercy. Below is a summary combining insights from various public domain commentaries.

Understanding Psalms 90:13

This verse reflects a plea from the psalmist, appealing to the Lord to return and show compassion towards His people. The urgency of the cry indicates a deep sense of longing for restoration and forgiveness.

Commentary Insights

  • Matthew Henry:

    Henry emphasizes that this verse encapsulates the essence of humanity's need for God. He notes that it is a call to divine intervention in our plight of sin and mortality. Humans are reminded of their transient nature and are encouraged to seek God’s favor earnestly.

  • Albert Barnes:

    Barnes interprets this phrase as an acknowledgment of human frailty and the longing for God's timely mercy. He asserts that the repeated cry for 'how long?' signifies an intense yearning for God’s presence, especially in times of affliction, urging readers to seek divine restoration actively.

  • Adam Clarke:

    According to Clarke, this verse suggests a profound supplication for God to relent from His anger and return to bless His servants. Clarke highlights the theological implications of divine mercy and its necessity in overcoming human despair.

Thematic Insights

This verse serves multiple thematic purposes in the context of the Psalms:

  • Divine Mercy: The need for repentance and mercy illustrates the relationship between humanity and God.
  • Human Mortality: The plea acknowledges the finite nature of human life, invoking God’s eternal compassion.
  • Restoration: The verse highlights the idea of returning to God, a central theme in Biblical repentance and renewal.

Application to Daily Life

Applying Psalms 90:13 to daily life encourages believers to:

  • Engage in regular prayer, appealing for God’s mercy and guidance.
  • Reflect on the brevity of life and prioritize a relationship with God.
  • Encourage others in faith to seek divine restoration in their lives.

Additional Cross References

  • Psalms 51:1-2 - A plea for mercy and cleansing.
  • Jeremiah 3:12 - God's call for repentance and return.
  • Isaiah 30:18 - The promise of God’s grace for those who wait in hope.

Conclusion

The verse Psalms 90:13 encapsulates a crucial aspect of biblical teachings on the necessity of seeking God’s mercy. Through understanding Scripture like this, believers can gain profound insights into their spiritual lives and grow in their relationship with God. The insights from scripture analysis and biblical exegesis of this passage encourage deep reflection and foster a rich environment for Bible study groups and community discussions.