Biblical Verses Biblical Verses & Resources

Book of Psalms - Chapter 39 - Verse 12

39:12
Hear my prayer, O LORD, and give ear unto my cry; hold not thy peace at my tears: for I am a stranger with thee, and a sojourner, as all my fathers were.

Meaning

This verse from the book of Psalms reflects the feelings of a person who is pleading with the Lord for His attention and help. The psalmist is expressing a deep sense of longing for God to listen to his prayers and not turn a deaf ear to his cries. By referring to himself as a "stranger" and a "sojourner," the psalmist acknowledges his temporary and transient nature on earth, highlighting the fact that he, like his ancestors, is ultimately just passing through this world. This verse captures the universal human experience of feeling like a foreigner in a world that is not our permanent home. It serves as a reminder that our true home is in heaven with the Lord, and that we are all pilgrims journeying towards that eternal destination. Through this verse, the psalmist seeks comfort and solace in the midst of life's challenges, trusting that God will hear his prayers and come to his aid.

Theological Overview

Psalm 39:12 is a cry for help from the psalmist who is feeling the weight of his transient existence on earth. The plea for God to hear his prayer and not remain silent emphasizes the desperate state of the speaker, who is in tears. The phrase "for I am a stranger with thee, and a sojourner, as all my fathers were" speaks to the psalmist's realization of his fleeting life on earth compared to the eternal nature of God. The words "stranger" and "sojourner" reflect the biblical understanding of life as a temporary pilgrimage, with the hope of a permanent home in heaven. The theological interpretation of this verse reminds believers of the importance of seeking God's presence and comfort in times of distress, knowing that our true home is with Him. Through word studies, we can delve deeper into the significance of the terms used, shedding light on the psalmist's state of mind and his relationship with God.

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