Psalms 103:5

KJV

Who satisfieth thy mouth with good [things; so that] thy youth is renewed like the eagle's.

KJV (with Strong's)

Who satisfieth {H7646} thy mouth {H5716} with good {H2896} things; so that thy youth {H5271} is renewed {H2318} like the eagle's {H5404}.

Complete Jewish Bible

he contents you with good as long as you live, so that your youth is renewed like an eagle's.

Berean Standard Bible

who satisfies you with good things, so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.

American Standard Version

Who satisfieth thy desire with good things, So that thy youth is renewed like the eagle.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 103:5 profoundly illustrates God's comprehensive provision and transformative power, portraying Him as the benevolent Sustainer who abundantly satisfies every deep longing and need. This divine satisfaction leads to a remarkable renewal of vitality and strength, likened to the majestic eagle's rejuvenation. Nestled within a psalm of fervent praise, this verse testifies to the Lord's enduring goodness, His active involvement in the well-being of His people, and His unique capacity to revitalize even the weary, granting them renewed vigor and purpose.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalm 103 is a magnificent Davidic psalm, opening with a personal and passionate exhortation from the psalmist to his own soul to "Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits" ([Psalms 103:1-2](/psalms/103-1-2 "Psalm 103:1-2 - Bless the Lord, O My Soul")). This immediate call to gratitude sets the tone for the entire psalm, which then meticulously catalogues God's gracious acts. Verses 3-4 detail specific divine blessings, including the forgiveness of sins, the healing of diseases, redemption from destruction, and the crowning with lovingkindness and tender mercies. Psalm 103:5 continues this enumeration of God's benevolent actions, moving from spiritual and physical deliverance to a holistic sense of profound satisfaction and supernatural renewal. The subsequent verses (e.g., [Psalms 103:6-18](/psalms/103-6-18 "Psalm 103:6-18 - The Lord's Righteousness, Mercy, and Enduring Love")) then expand on God's character, emphasizing His righteousness, mercy, slowness to anger, and enduring faithfulness, thereby reinforcing the foundational reasons for the blessings described.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Composed by King David, this psalm reflects the deep theological understanding and intimate relationship with God characteristic of Israel's greatest monarch. The imagery of the eagle (Hebrew: *nesher*) was highly significant and potent in the ancient Near East, symbolizing majesty, strength, longevity, and divine power. Ancient observers were keenly aware of the eagle's molting process, where it sheds old, worn feathers and grows new, vibrant ones, appearing to regain its youthful vigor, sharp eyesight, and powerful flight. This natural phenomenon was widely interpreted as a form of renewal or rejuvenation, making it a powerful metaphor for divine restoration. The concept of "youth" (Hebrew: *nâʻûwr*) in this context extends beyond mere chronological age, encompassing vitality, strength, and the flourishing of life—qualities highly valued in a society where aging often brought swift decline and increased vulnerability.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes within Psalm 103 and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores **Divine Provision and Satisfaction**, highlighting God's boundless generosity in meeting not just physical needs but also the deeper longings of the human spirit, leading to true contentment. Secondly, it powerfully conveys the theme of **Supernatural Renewal and Restoration**, asserting God's ability to revitalize and invigorate, transforming weariness into renewed strength. This echoes the profound promise found in [Isaiah 40:31](/isaiah/40-31 "Isaiah 40:31 - Renewal for Those Who Wait on the Lord"), where those who wait on the Lord will renew their strength and soar like eagles. Finally, the verse reinforces the theme of **God's Enduring Goodness and Benevolence**, portraying Him as an active, caring Father who delights in blessing His children and restoring what has been diminished or lost, demonstrating His unfailing love and faithfulness throughout all generations, as celebrated throughout [Psalm 103](/psalms/103 "Psalm 103 - A Psalm of Praise for God's Goodness").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **satisfieth (Hebrew, _sâbaʻ'_):** This primitive root signifies to be sated, filled to satisfaction, or to have enough. It implies more than merely having sufficient; it denotes an abundance that leaves no room for want or hunger. In a spiritual and holistic sense, it speaks to a deep contentment and fulfillment that God alone can provide, addressing every aspect of one's being, leaving one completely satisfied.
* **mouth (Hebrew, _ʻădîy'_):** While literally referring to the physical mouth, this word (H5716) primarily denotes "finery" or "ornament," and generally an "outfit" or "headstall." In this context, "mouth" functions as an idiom or metonymy, representing one's appetite, desires, or even the entire person as the recipient of God's blessings. It suggests that God fills every longing and need, providing a comprehensive and holistic satisfaction that adorns and completes the individual.
* **youth (Hebrew, _nâʻûwr'_):** This term (H5271) refers to the state of juvenility or young people collectively. It signifies the period of life characterized by vigor, freshness, and strength. In this verse, it extends beyond mere chronological age to encompass a renewed state of vitality, energy, and flourishing, indicating a profound restoration of one's prime condition.
* **renewed (Hebrew, _châdash'_):** This primitive root (H2318) means "to be new," or causatively, "to rebuild" or "repair." It carries the connotation of fresh growth, restoration, or transformation after a period of decline, decay, or weariness. It implies a profound and active work of God that brings about a state of vigor and newness, making something old or worn become fresh again.
* **eagle's (Hebrew, _nesher'_):** This word (H5404) refers to the eagle (or other large bird of prey), renowned in ancient times for its majesty, strength, longevity, and ability to soar to great heights. The imagery here refers to the perceived process of renewal through molting, where the eagle sheds its old feathers and grows new, strong ones, appearing to regain its youthful vitality and sharp vision. It symbolizes a dramatic and complete restoration of strength, vigor, and even a fresh perspective.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Who satisfieth thy mouth with good [things;]":** This initial clause establishes God as the sovereign and benevolent provider. The "good things" (Hebrew: *ṭôwb*) are not limited to physical sustenance but encompass all that is beneficial for holistic well-being – spiritual nourishment, emotional comfort, intellectual stimulation, and physical provision. The emphasis is on God's abundant generosity, which completely fills and satisfies the deepest needs and desires, represented by the "mouth" as the recipient of these blessings.
* **"so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's.":** This second clause describes the glorious *result* of God's satisfying provision. The "youth" here refers not strictly to chronological age but to vitality, vigor, strength, and freshness of spirit. The powerful simile "like the eagle's" illustrates the nature of this renewal: it is a profound, almost miraculous, restoration of strength and energy, enabling one to overcome weariness and soar above life's challenges with renewed power and perspective, much like an eagle regaining its full strength and keen sight after molting.

#### Literary Devices
The verse masterfully employs **Simile** and **Imagery** to convey its profound message. The central **simile** "like the eagle's" directly compares the renewal of one's youth (meaning vigor and vitality) to the perceived rejuvenation of an eagle. This comparison is rich with **imagery**, evoking the majestic flight, keen sight, and formidable strength of the eagle, thereby symbolizing a powerful, comprehensive, and almost supernatural restoration. The use of "mouth" as a recipient of "good things" can also be seen as a **metonymy**, where a part (mouth) stands for the whole person and their holistic needs and desires, emphasizing the comprehensive nature of God's provision. This combination of devices creates a vivid and memorable picture of divine sustenance leading to a profound and enduring revitalization.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 103:5 powerfully articulates God's character as the ultimate Sustainer and Restorer. Theologically, it affirms His active involvement in the daily lives of His people, not merely as a distant Creator but as an intimate Provider who delights in bestowing "good things." This satisfaction extends beyond the material, touching the very core of one's being, leading to a holistic renewal that encompasses spiritual, emotional, and physical vitality. The verse points to God's covenant faithfulness, demonstrating His commitment to uphold and invigorate those who trust in Him, transforming weariness into soaring strength. It reminds us that true and lasting renewal comes not from human effort but from divine grace, flowing from God's inexhaustible goodness and mercy, which are "new every morning" and never fail.

* [Isaiah 40:31](/isaiah/40-31 "Isaiah 40:31 - Renewal for Those Who Wait on the Lord")
* [Philippians 4:19](/philippians/4-19 "Philippians 4:19 - God's Abundant Provision for All Needs")
* [Lamentations 3:22-23](/lamentations/3-22-23 "Lamentations 3:22-23 - The Lord's Mercies Are New Every Morning")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalms 103:5 offers profound encouragement and a wellspring of hope for believers navigating the weariness and challenges of life. It reminds us that our God is not only capable of creating but also of sustaining and restoring. When we feel depleted, aged by anxieties, or spiritually fatigued, this verse directs our gaze to the Lord as the inexhaustible source of revitalization. It invites us to trust in His generous provision, recognizing that His "good things" are comprehensive, addressing every facet of our being. This renewal may manifest as a fresh burst of spiritual energy, renewed physical strength, emotional healing, or a restored sense of purpose and joy. It calls us to actively wait on the Lord, to praise Him for His continuous work in our lives, and to confidently anticipate His transforming power, turning our weariness into renewed strength, enabling us to rise above our circumstances with the vigor and perspective of an eagle.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific areas of your life (spiritual, emotional, physical) do you currently feel most in need of God's satisfying provision and renewal?**
* **How does the imagery of the eagle's renewal challenge or expand your understanding of what God is capable of doing in your life?**
* **What practical steps can you take this week to intentionally "wait upon the Lord" and open yourself to His promised renewal, as suggested by this verse and [Isaiah 40:31](/isaiah/40-31 "Isaiah 40:31 - Renewal for Those Who Wait on the Lord")?**

### FAQ

**Does "youth is renewed" imply physical rejuvenation or something else?**

Answer: While the imagery of the eagle suggests a physical restoration of vigor, the phrase "thy youth is renewed" in Psalms 103:5 should be understood holistically, encompassing spiritual, emotional, and mental vitality, not merely a reversal of chronological aging. It speaks to a renewal of strength, energy, and a fresh outlook, much like the qualities associated with youth. God's provision and renewal are comprehensive, addressing the entire person, enabling them to live with renewed purpose and strength regardless of physical age. This divine renewal is distinct from human attempts at anti-aging, focusing instead on a deep, internal revitalization that impacts one's entire being.

**What is the significance of the "eagle" in this verse?**

Answer: The eagle (Hebrew: *nesher*) is a powerful and majestic bird, often associated with strength, longevity, high flight, and keen vision in ancient cultures. Its significance in Psalms 103:5 lies in the ancient observation of its molting process, where it sheds old, worn feathers and grows new, vibrant ones. This natural phenomenon was perceived as a profound act of self-renewal, symbolizing a dramatic regaining of strength, vitality, and even a fresh perspective. Thus, being "renewed like the eagle's" signifies a profound, almost miraculous, restoration of vigor and power, enabling one to rise above difficulties with renewed strength and clarity, much like the promise found in [Isaiah 40:31](/isaiah/40-31 "Isaiah 40:31 - Renewal for Those Who Wait on the Lord").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 103:5 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who is the very embodiment of God's "good things" and the inexhaustible source of eternal renewal. He is the [Bread of Life](/john/6-35 "John 6:35 - Jesus, the Bread of Life") who truly satisfies our deepest spiritual hunger, and the [Living Water](/john/4-14 "John 4:14 - Jesus, the Living Water") that quenches our spiritual thirst, ensuring that those who come to Him will never hunger or thirst again. Just as the psalm speaks of forgiveness of sins and healing of diseases in [Psalms 103:3](/psalms/103-3 "Psalm 103:3 - Forgiveness and Healing"), Jesus, through His atoning sacrifice on the cross, offers complete forgiveness and spiritual healing, making us [new creations](/2_corinthians/5-17 "2 Corinthians 5:17 - New Creation in Christ") in Him. The renewal of "youth like the eagle's" points forward to the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, who dwells within believers, giving life to our mortal bodies and continually renewing our minds and spirits ([Romans 8:11](/romans/8-11 "Romans 8:11 - Spirit Gives Life to Mortal Bodies"); [Romans 12:2](/romans/12-2 "Romans 12:2 - Transformed by the Renewal of Your Mind")). Ultimately, Christ's resurrection is the supreme act of renewal, guaranteeing our future bodily resurrection and the promise that He will one day [make all things new](/revelation/21-5 "Revelation 21:5 - God Makes All Things New"), bringing about a complete and eternal restoration that far surpasses any earthly renewal, culminating in a new heaven and a new earth.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Isaiah 40:31

But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew [their] strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; [and] they shall walk, and not faint.

Psalms 107:9

For he satisfieth the longing soul, and filleth the hungry soul with goodness.

2 Corinthians 4:16

For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward [man] is renewed day by day.

1 Timothy 6:17

Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy;

Psalms 63:5

My soul shall be satisfied as [with] marrow and fatness; and my mouth shall praise [thee] with joyful lips:

Psalms 104:28

[That] thou givest them they gather: thou openest thine hand, they are filled with good.

Psalms 23:5

Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.