Psalms 59:15 KJV

Let them wander up and down for meat, and grudge if they be not satisfied.

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Psalms 59:15 Bible Commentary

Psalms 59:15 - A Summary of Insights from Public Domain Commentaries

Verse Text: "Let them wander up and down for meat, and grudge if they be not satisfied." (Psalm 59:15, KJV)

Context and Overview

The Psalms are often reflections of human experience, filled with profound emotions and spiritual truths. Psalm 59, attributed to David, is a lament expressing the angst of being pursued by enemies. This particular verse encapsulates a grim picture of the wicked—portraying their futile search for sustenance and the bitterness that accompanies their unsatisfied desires.

Exegesis of Psalms 59:15

Meaning of "Wander up and down for meat": This phrase suggests a continual aimless searching, indicative of restlessness and dissatisfaction. Scholars like Matthew Henry comment that this reflects the nature of the wicked, who despite their relentless pursuit will find nothing to sustain them spiritually or physically.

Significance of "grudge if they be not satisfied": The term 'grudge' implies resentment and dissatisfaction. Albert Barnes notes that the wicked, in their insatiable greed, will inevitably fester in bitterness—a state contrasting sharply with the peace that the righteous find in God.

Theological Implications

This verse presents a rich theological tapestry. It highlights the contrast between the fates of the righteous and the wicked, a common theme throughout the Psalms. The wandering of the wicked exemplifies their separation from God's provision and their consequent distress.

  • The Nature of Evil: The wandering suggests instability and lack of purpose, attributes associated with a life devoid of divine direction. Adam Clarke elaborates on this, emphasizing the futility of evil endeavors.
  • Divine Providence: The dissatisfaction faced by the wicked serves to illustrate God's justice. Their inability to find sustenance is a reflection of divine displeasure, suggesting that those who reject God cannot find true fulfillment.

Pastoral Applications

For pastors and theologians, Psalm 59:15 provides various applications:

  • Warning to the Congregation: This verse serves as a cautionary tale regarding the pursuit of worldly desires. Pastors can use it to encourage congregants to seek spiritual sustenance rather than transient pleasures.
  • Encouragement for the Righteous: When deliverance seems delayed, and the wicked appear to thrive, this verse reassures the faithful that just as the wicked wander in search of fulfillment, the satisfaction found in the Lord is secure and profound.

Conclusion

Psalms 59:15 challenges us to reflect on our own pursuits. Are we seeking sustenance from the world, with its inevitable sense of dissatisfaction, or are we turning to God, who promises to meet our needs and provide true contentment? The insights drawn from public domain commentaries reveal a profound truth: the paths of the wicked lead to darkness, while those who trust in God are led to the light of His provision.