Psalms 34:9 - Bible Commentary

Verse: "O fear the Lord, ye His saints: for there is no want to them that fear Him."

Introduction

This verse from Psalms serves as an exhortation to the faithful to revere God and acknowledges the bountiful provision He offers to those who rightly respect Him. In this commentary, we will explore the significance of fearing the Lord, the implications of this fear in the lives of believers, and the consequent assurance of provision for those who align themselves with God's teachings.

Division and Structure

Matthew Henry notes that this verse is part of a larger teaching found within the context of Psalm 34, which celebrates God's goodness and deliverance. It can be observed in two primary components:

• Exhortation to Reverence (Fear the Lord)
• Assurance of Provision (No want to them that fear Him)

Exhortation to Reverence

Fear the Lord. The phrase denotes a profound respect and awe towards God. Albert Barnes elaborates that the fear mentioned is not one of terror or dread, but rather an urge toward reverence and worship. This reverent fear is essential for spiritual growth, as it aligns the heart of the believer towards God’s will.

Adam Clarke provides additional insights, emphasizing that the fear of the Lord leads to wisdom and understanding. This fear should permeate all aspects of life, impacting behavior, decision-making, and a daily attitude towards righteousness.

Application for the Believer

For pastors and leaders, this verse serves as a reminder to instill reverence for God in congregations. The fear of the Lord acts as a foundational principle of worship and is crucial in maintaining holiness and integrity within both individual lives and communal worship.

Students and theologians can observe that this verse outlines a covenantal relationship between God and His people. The saints, distinguished by their reverential fear of God, are promised His provision, suggesting that their spiritual sustenance is intertwined with their respect and obedience to God.

Assurance of Provision

No want to them that fear Him. This assurance speaks not only to physical needs but also to spiritual and emotional fulfillment. Matthew Henry states that God, in His goodness, ensures that those who fear Him lack nothing essential. It communicates the idea of divine providence that sustains believers through trials and needs.

Barnes goes further by asserting the comprehensive nature of God's provision, highlighting that when one fears God, they are apt to receive both material and spiritual blessings. This aligns with the biblical principle that God rewards those who earnestly seek Him (Hebrews 11:6).

Faith and Trust in God's Provision

The assurance provided in this verse encourages a faith-filled trust in God’s goodness. When one walks in the fear of the Lord, their lives become a reflection of trust in God's absolutes. Adam Clarke emphasizes that reliance on God is crucial during times of distress, reminding believers that they are never truly in want when they are in right relationship with Him.

The Character of God

The implications of fearing the Lord extend into a deeper understanding of God's character. He is a loving provider, and the psalmist's call to fear Him acknowledges His majesty and nurturing nature. In this way, reverence is not merely an emotional response but a recognition of God's sovereign grace.

Conclusion

Psalms 34:9 serves as a powerful reminder of the blessings that come from fearing the Lord. For pastors, it urges a call to lead congregations in reverent fear of God, which correlates directly to their spiritual abundance. For students and theologians, it invites a deeper exploration into the relationship between divine fear and divine provision.

Ultimately, this verse reassures believers of God's faithfulness to those who honor Him, providing them with strength, wisdom, and sustenance in their spiritual journey.