Psalms 34:5

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Psalms 34:5 KJV

They looked unto him, and were lightened: and their faces were not ashamed.

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Psalms 34:5 Bible Commentary

Commentary on Psalms 34:5

Psalms 34:5 states, "They looked unto him, and were lightened: and their faces were not ashamed."

This verse encapsulates a profound spiritual truth that speaks to the experience of divine encounter and the transformative power of looking to God. In examining this verse, we will draw insights from the commentaries of Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke, allowing for a rich tapestry of interpretations valuable for pastors, students, theologians, and Bible scholars.

Exegesis of Psalms 34:5

The psalmist, believed to be David, expresses a moment of testimony regarding the effect of seeking the Lord. The act of looking to God signifies a move towards Him in faith and expectation.

Matthew Henry’s Commentary

Matthew Henry notes that the phrase "looked unto him" indicates a gaze of faith directed towards God, characterized by earnestness and dependence. He emphasizes that those who seek God do not merely glance at Him but fix their eyes upon Him with hope and trust. Henry highlights that the result of this looking is that they "were lightened," which denotes a lifting of burdens and an illumination of understanding.

  • Spiritual Enlightenment: The lightening of their countenances reflects an inward joy and peace resulting from divine presence. As believers turn their eyes to God, they experience relief from guilt, shame, and despair—emotional burdens that often plague the soul.
  • Non-Disappointment: Henry emphasizes the reassurance that "their faces were not ashamed." This promises that those who trust in the Lord will not be put to shame. God’s faithfulness stands as a pillar, guaranteeing that He will deliver those who seek Him.

Albert Barnes’ Notes

Albert Barnes focuses on the significance of the word "looked." He explains that this denotes an active engagement—not simply looking but a looking with expectation and desire.

  • Expression of Need: Barnes suggests that to "look" implies an acknowledgment of need. It is an admission of one's inability to find solace or help within oneself and a turning towards God for assistance.
  • Manifestation of Hope: According to Barnes, the assurance that they "were lightened" implies divine intervention. When individuals earnestly seek after God, they are met with divine light that dispels darkness—both spiritual and emotional.
  • Blessed Assurance: Barnes concludes with the idea that those who look toward the Lord experience a transformative blessing which leads them to joy, removing their shame and replacing it with hope and confidence.

Adam Clarke’s Commentary

Adam Clarke provides a detailed analysis of the text, asserting that the act of looking unto God is one that brings reassurance and transformation.

  • Theological Implications: Clarke emphasizes the theological principle that God's presence is a source of safety and enlightenment. This act of looking unto God represents a step of faith that results in a supernatural exchange—darkness for light, despair for hope.
  • Covenantal Relationship: He points out the significance of the covenant relationship that believers share with God. The assurance that they will not be ashamed speaks to the faithfulness of God to His promises and the security found in reliance upon Him.
  • Encouragement for the Downcast: Clarke also suggests that this verse serves as a powerful encouragement for the downcast and disheartened. The act of 'looking to Him' is an antidote to despair, inviting those who feel heavy-laden to encounter the light and joy that comes from God.

Practical Applications

The profound insights garnered from these commentaries highlight crucial applications for believers today.

  • Encouragement to Seek God: Believers are encouraged to actively seek God's face in times of trouble, believing He is faithful to uplift and illuminate.
  • Transformation through Perspective: The changing of one’s focus from self to God can lead to a renewal of mind and spirit, allowing the believer to experience true joy and hope.
  • Assurance of God’s Faithfulness: In a world filled with uncertainty, the promise of not being put to shame reinforces the importance of trusting in God’s character and ability to fulfill His promises.
  • A Call to Action for Pastors and Leaders: Pastors and spiritual leaders bear the responsibility to guide their congregations in looking towards God, cultivating a community of faith and hope rather than despair.

Conclusion

In summary, Psalms 34:5 serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative impact of seeking God. Through the insights of Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke, we uncover a rich tapestry of understanding that speaks to the heart of the believer's experience, encouraging a life marked by faith, trust, and light. As believers "look unto Him," they are promised not only deliverance and enlightenment but also a profound fellowship with the Lord that dispels shame and fosters joy.

Psalms 34 (KJV) Verse Selection

Psalms 34:1 Psalms 34:2 Psalms 34:3 Psalms 34:4 Psalms 34:5 Psalms 34:6 Psalms 34:7 Psalms 34:8 Psalms 34:9 Psalms 34:10 Psalms 34:11 Psalms 34:12 Psalms 34:13 Psalms 34:14 Psalms 34:15 Psalms 34:16 Psalms 34:17 Psalms 34:18 Psalms 34:19 Psalms 34:20 Psalms 34:21 Psalms 34:22

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