What is the meaning of Psalms 90:5?

Thou carriest them away as with a flood; they are as a sleep: in the morning they are like grass which groweth up.

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Psalms 90:5 Bible Verse Meaning

Bible Verse Meaning: Psalms 90:5

Psalms 90:5 states: "You sweep them away as with a flood; they are like a dream, like grass that is renewed in the morning."

Understanding the Verse

This verse emphasizes the fleeting nature of human life in comparison to the eternality of God. It metaphorically illustrates life as something that is quickly disposed of, similar to how grass withers or a flood sweeps away everything in its path.

Bible Verse Commentary from Public Domain Sources

  • Matthew Henry:

    He elaborates on the brevity of life, illustrating it as a transitory phase. The imagery of a flood signifies how quickly time passes and how swiftly mortality can come. Henry reflects on our lives being nothing more than a fleeting moment, akin to grass that flourishes in the morning but fades by evening.

  • Albert Barnes:

    Barnes provides insight into the notion of life being like a dream. He suggests that just as dreams are often forgotten upon waking, so too are our lives in the grand scheme of eternity. He posits that this serves as a reminder for individuals to live wisely and purposefully.

  • Adam Clarke:

    Clarke focuses on the meaning behind the metaphor of the grass. He explains that grass is refreshed in the morning and can seem vibrant, yet it ultimately withers. This cycle represents the human experience and questions the permanence of our accomplishments on earth.

Key Themes and Insights

  • Transience of Life: The verse highlights how life is short-lived and emphasizes the importance of valuing each moment.
  • Divine Sovereignty: It shows God’s control over the passage of time and humanity’s vulnerability.
  • Call to Reflection: The imagery evokes a deeper reflection on one’s purpose and life choices, urging believers to seek eternal significance rather than temporal satisfaction.

Personal Application and Reflection

Reflecting on Psalms 90:5, one is encouraged to consider how ephemeral life truly is. It prompts a response on how to live with intention and faith, understanding that our time is valued and encourages individuals to prioritize their relationship with God amidst life's brevity.

Cross References

  • James 4:14: "Yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes."
  • Psalm 103:15-16: "As for man, his days are like grass; he flourishes like a flower of the field; for the wind passes over it, and it is gone, and its place knows it no more."
  • Isaiah 40:6-8: "A voice says, 'Cry!' And I said, 'What shall I cry?' All flesh is grass, and all its beauty is like the flower of the field..."

Conclusion

Psalms 90:5 serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the need for mindfulness in our daily walk in faith. The combined insights from commentaries deepen our understanding of this verse, guiding believers in their spiritual journey as they navigate the complexities of life under the sovereignty of God.