Psalms 119:149

KJV

¶ Hear my voice according unto thy lovingkindness: O LORD, quicken me according to thy judgment.

KJV (with Strong's)

Hear {H8085} my voice {H6963} according unto thy lovingkindness {H2617}: O LORD {H3068}, quicken {H2421} me according to thy judgment {H4941}.

Complete Jewish Bible

In your grace, hear my voice; ADONAI, in keeping with your justice, revive me.

Berean Standard Bible

Hear my voice, O LORD, according to Your loving devotion; give me life according to Your justice.

American Standard Version

Hear my voice according unto thy lovingkindness: Quicken me, O Jehovah, according to thine ordinances.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 119:149 presents an urgent and profound prayer from the psalmist, expressing deep reliance on God for both attentive hearing and life-giving spiritual renewal. The plea "Hear my voice" conveys a desperate need for divine intervention, while the dual appeals to God's "lovingkindness" and "judgment" establish the believer's absolute dependence on God's steadfast covenant faithfulness and His righteous, unchanging standards. This verse encapsulates the essence of a trusting relationship with the Almighty, where human need meets divine character, forming the twin foundations for receiving spiritual vitality and guidance.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalms 119 stands as the Bible's longest chapter, an intricately designed acrostic poem where each of its 22 sections, corresponding to the letters of the Hebrew alphabet, comprises eight verses, all commencing with that section's letter. The entire psalm is a magnificent and exhaustive ode to the glory, power, and perfection of God's Word, often referenced through a rich tapestry of synonyms such as statutes, precepts, commandments, judgments, testimonies, and laws. Across its 176 verses, the psalmist consistently articulates profound love for, unwavering commitment to, and absolute reliance upon God's divine revelation. Verse 149 is situated within the *Tzade* section (verses 145-152), a segment characterized by fervent, heartfelt cries to God, frequently uttered from the depths of the psalmist's being in the face of adversity or persecution. In this context, the psalmist earnestly seeks deliverance, spiritual vitality, and vindication, grounding these petitions in God's faithfulness and truth, as further evidenced by the plea for God to "contend my cause, and deliver me" in [Psalm 119:154](/psalms/119-154 "Psalm 119:154 - Plead my cause, and deliver me").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** While Psalm 119 does not specify a particular historical event or individual, it deeply reflects the common experience of a devout Israelite living in covenant relationship with Yahweh. The cultural context underscores the absolute centrality of the Torah (God's instruction/law) in daily life and national identity. For the ancient Israelite, God's "judgments" (מִשְׁפָּט, *mišpāṭ*) were far more than mere legal rulings; they were divine decrees that established order, justice, and the very framework for a blessed life within the covenant. The concept of "lovingkindness" (חֶסֶד, *ḥesed*) was foundational to understanding God's covenant loyalty and enduring mercy towards His people, a faithfulness that transcended human failings and provided an unwavering basis for hope. Prayers for "quickening" or revival were common, particularly when individuals or the nation felt spiritually sluggish, oppressed, or distant from God, echoing the communal laments and appeals for restoration found throughout the prophetic books and other psalms. The direct address to "O LORD" (Yahweh) signifies an appeal to the personal, covenant-keeping God of Israel, who actively hears and responds to His people.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Psalm 119 and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights **Absolute Dependence on God**, as the psalmist's very life and spiritual vitality are presented as entirely contingent upon divine action, specifically God's hearing and quickening. This dependence is not a weakness but a recognition of God's sovereign power and grace. Secondly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Responsiveness and Grace**, emphasizing that God's willingness to hear and act is rooted not in human merit or performance but in His inherent "lovingkindness" (חֶסֶד, *ḥesed*), His steadfast, covenantal love. This grace is the wellspring from which all blessings flow, demonstrating God's initiative in sustaining His people. Thirdly, the verse articulates the theme of **Life According to God's Standards**. The request to be "quickened... according to thy judgment" reveals a profound desire for a revival that is not merely emotional or self-serving but is precisely aligned with God's righteous decrees and perfect wisdom. True spiritual life, therefore, is life lived in conformity to God's holy will, as the psalmist consistently affirms the perfection and life-giving power of God's law throughout the psalm, declaring in [Psalm 119:93](/psalms/119-93 "Psalm 119:93 - I will never forget thy precepts: for with them thou hast quickened me").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Lovingkindness (Hebrew, _chêçêd'_):** This is a rich theological term (H2617) that conveys God's covenant loyalty, steadfast love, mercy, and faithfulness. It describes an active, enduring, and generous love that flows from God's character and is often linked to His covenant promises to Israel. The psalmist appeals to this fundamental aspect of God's nature, recognizing that God's willingness to hear and respond is not based on human merit but on His unchanging, gracious character.
* **Quicken (Hebrew, _châyâh'_):** This verb (H2421) means "to live," "to revive," "to restore to life," or "to preserve life." While it can refer to physical life, in this spiritual context, it signifies spiritual renewal, invigoration, and vitality. The psalmist is not necessarily asking for physical resurrection but for a profound reanimation of his spirit, a restoration of spiritual vigor and closeness to God, especially when feeling weary, discouraged, or distant. It implies a desire for a deeper, more vibrant experience of God's life within him.
* **Judgment (Hebrew, _mishpâṭ'_):** This term (H4941) refers to God's righteous ordinances, decrees, and justice. It encompasses divine rulings, legal precedents, and the overall standard of God's perfect and equitable governance. When the psalmist asks to be quickened "according to thy judgment," it indicates a desire for spiritual life and revival that is not arbitrary or based on human understanding, but one that conforms to and is shaped by God's perfect wisdom, justice, and moral standards. It underscores that true spiritual life is lived in harmony with God's holy and unchanging will.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Hear my voice":** This is a direct, earnest, and often desperate petition for God's attentive ear. It reflects the psalmist's conviction that God is a personal, responsive God who listens to the cries of His people. This plea implies a state of need or distress, where the psalmist feels a profound urgency for divine intervention and communication, longing for God's active engagement.
* **"according unto thy lovingkindness":** This crucial phrase establishes the ground or basis for the psalmist's plea. The request for God to hear is not founded on the psalmist's righteousness, worthiness, or any perceived merit, but solely on God's inherent nature of *ḥesed*. It is an appeal to God's boundless mercy, steadfast love, and unwavering covenant faithfulness, acknowledging that any favorable response is an act of pure, unmerited divine grace.
* **"O LORD":** This is a direct address to Yahweh (H3068), the personal, covenantal name of God revealed to Israel. It signifies a relationship of intimacy, trust, and profound reverence, distinguishing the God of Israel from all other deities. This address reinforces the personal nature of the prayer and the psalmist's reliance on the one true God who has revealed Himself in covenant and is faithful to His promises.
* **"quicken me":** This is the core petition for spiritual renewal, a fervent cry to God to impart life, to revive, or to restore vitality. The psalmist is asking for more than just a feeling; it is a profound spiritual reanimation, a renewal of strength, purpose, and closeness to God, enabling the psalmist to live more fully in obedience and devotion, especially when feeling spiritually weary or distant.
* **"according to thy judgment":** This clause defines the nature and standard of the requested quickening. The psalmist desires to be revived in a way that aligns precisely with God's righteous decrees and perfect wisdom. It is a prayer for spiritual renewal that leads to greater conformity to God's holy will and truth, ensuring that the revived life is lived in accordance with divine standards, not human inclinations, subjective feelings, or potential errors.

#### Literary Devices
Psalms 119:149 skillfully employs several literary devices that enhance its meaning and emotional impact. The most prominent is **Petition**, as the entire verse functions as a direct, fervent, and urgent appeal to God. This petition is characterized by explicit **Dependence**, where the psalmist articulates that the basis for God's action is His "lovingkindness" and the standard for the desired "quickening" is His "judgment," thereby acknowledging complete reliance on divine character and divine will. There is also a powerful **Juxtaposition** or complementary pairing of "lovingkindness" and "judgment." While seemingly distinct attributes, these two are presented as co-foundational for God's interaction with humanity: His grace (lovingkindness) prompts Him to hear and act, and His righteousness (judgment) guides the nature and purpose of that action. This highlights the holistic nature of God's character, where mercy and justice are not in conflict but work in concert to bring about spiritual life and order. The phrase "Hear my voice" also functions as a form of **Anthropomorphism**, attributing human sensory perception (hearing) to God, making the divine accessible and relatable to the human experience of prayer and fostering a sense of intimate communion.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 119:149 beautifully encapsulates the profound theological truth that human spiritual vitality is entirely dependent on God's initiative, rooted in His unchanging character. The appeal to "lovingkindness" (חֶסֶד) connects this prayer to the broader biblical theme of God's covenant faithfulness and His unmerited grace, which is the foundational wellspring for all divine interaction with humanity. Simultaneously, the request for quickening "according to thy judgment" underscores the necessity of aligning human life with God's righteous standards. This highlights that true spiritual revival is not merely an emotional experience or a fleeting feeling, but a transformative process that brings the believer into greater conformity with divine truth and justice. It is a prayer for life that is both grace-given and morally ordered, reflecting the perfect balance of God's attributes in His dealings with His people.

* [Psalm 51:10](/psalms/51-10 "Psalm 51:10 - Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.")
* [Lamentations 3:22-23](/lamentations/3-22-23 "Lamentations 3:22-23 - The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.")
* [Deuteronomy 32:4](/deuteronomy/32-4 "Deuteronomy 32:4 - He is the Rock, His work is perfect: for all His ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is He.")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalms 119:149 serves as a timeless and profound model for the believer's prayer life, especially when facing spiritual weariness, confusion, or a sense of distance from God. It teaches us to approach God with honest urgency ("Hear my voice"), grounding our petitions not in our own merit or perceived worthiness, but solely in His abundant "lovingkindness" (grace). This verse reminds us that true spiritual renewal ("quicken me") is an entirely divine work, and it is a renewal that seeks to bring our lives into greater alignment with God's righteous "judgment" (His perfect will and standards). It is a prayer for revival that leads to deeper obedience, greater clarity, and a more profound walk with Him, rather than merely a comfortable feeling or a temporary emotional uplift. In moments of spiritual dryness, moral uncertainty, or profound need, we can confidently echo the psalmist's cry, trusting that God hears, and that His life-giving power will guide us into a life that honors His truth and reflects His holy character. This prayer fosters humility, absolute dependence on God, and a deep longing for holiness.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific areas of your life do you most urgently need God to "quicken" or revive you today, bringing fresh spiritual vitality?**
* **How does a deeper understanding of God's unchanging "lovingkindness" (חֶסֶד) impact your confidence and boldness in approaching Him with your deepest needs and struggles?**
* **What does it truly mean for your spiritual renewal to be "according to thy judgment," and how might this perspective shape your desires for personal growth and obedience?**
* **How can this verse inspire you to be more persistent, earnest, and specific in your prayers for spiritual vitality and a deeper, more complete alignment with God's perfect will?**

### FAQ

**What does "quicken me" truly mean in this context?**

Answer: In Psalms 119:149, "quicken me" (from the Hebrew *ḥāyâ*, H2421) primarily means to "make alive," "revive," or "restore to spiritual vitality." It's not typically a request for physical resurrection, but rather a deep longing for spiritual reanimation. The psalmist, perhaps feeling spiritually sluggish, discouraged, or oppressed by circumstances or sin, is asking God to infuse him with new life, vigor, and responsiveness to divine truth. It's a prayer for renewed spiritual strength, a rekindling of devotion, and a fresh experience of God's presence and power, enabling him to live more fully in accordance with God's will. This concept of spiritual quickening is powerfully echoed in the New Testament, where believers are described as being "made alive together with Christ" in [Ephesians 2:5](/ephesians/2-5 "Ephesians 2:5 - Made alive with Christ").

**How do "lovingkindness" and "judgment" relate in this prayer?**

Answer: These two attributes, "lovingkindness" (חֶסֶד, *ḥesed*, H2617) and "judgment" (מִשְׁפָּט, *mišpâṭ*, H4941), represent the dual, yet complementary, foundations upon which the psalmist bases his prayer. "Lovingkindness" refers to God's steadfast, covenantal love and mercy. It is the *motive* for God's action; the psalmist appeals to God's gracious character as the reason He should hear and respond. It signifies that God's willingness to grant life and attention stems from His unmerited favor and faithfulness, not human worthiness. "Judgment," on the other hand, refers to God's righteous decrees, justice, and moral standards. It is the *standard* or *direction* for God's action; the psalmist desires a quickening that is not arbitrary or self-serving, but one that conforms to God's perfect and holy will. Thus, the prayer beautifully balances God's grace and His righteousness: God's *ḥesed* moves Him to act, and His *mišpâṭ* guides how He acts, ensuring that the spiritual life imparted is one that aligns with divine truth and justice. This profound harmony of grace and truth is a consistent theme throughout Scripture, as seen in [Psalm 85:10](/psalms/85-10 "Psalm 85:10 - Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 119:149 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The psalmist's earnest cry to be "quickened" according to God's "judgment" and "lovingkindness" points directly to Christ, who is the perfect embodiment of both divine *ḥesed* and *mišpâṭ*. Jesus perfectly manifested God's "lovingkindness" in His incarnation, His compassionate life, and His atoning sacrifice on the cross, demonstrating the boundless mercy and steadfast love of God towards humanity, even while we were still sinners ([Romans 5:8](/romans/5-8 "Romans 5:8 - God shows His love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us")). He is the very "Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!" ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")). Furthermore, Christ perfectly upheld God's "judgment" or righteous standards, living a sinless life and fulfilling all righteousness required by the law ([Matthew 3:15](/matthew/3-15 "Matthew 3:15 - Jesus said to John, 'Let it be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness'")). More significantly, Jesus is the very source of the "quickening" that the psalmist longed for. He declared, "I am the resurrection and the life" ([John 11:25](/john/11-25 "John 11:25 - Jesus said, 'I am the resurrection and the life'")), and He gives spiritual life to those who were spiritually dead in trespasses and sins ([Ephesians 2:1](/ephesians/2-1 "Ephesians 2:1 - You were dead in the trespasses and sins")). Through faith in Him, believers receive not only forgiveness but also the indwelling Holy Spirit, who is the "Spirit of life" ([Romans 8:2](/romans/8-2 "Romans 8:2 - The law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and death")), continually quickening and transforming us into His likeness, aligning us with God's perfect will and judgment. Thus, the psalmist's prayer for life and alignment with God's character is fully realized in the Person and redemptive work of Christ, who is our life and our righteousness.

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 63:7

¶ I will mention the lovingkindnesses of the LORD, [and] the praises of the LORD, according to all that the LORD hath bestowed on us, and the great goodness toward the house of Israel, which he hath bestowed on them according to his mercies, and according to the multitude of his lovingkindnesses.

Psalms 51:1

¶ To the chief Musician, [A Psalm] of David, when Nathan the prophet came unto him, after he had gone in to Bathsheba. Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions.

Psalms 55:2

Attend unto me, and hear me: I mourn in my complaint, and make a noise;

Psalms 109:21

¶ But do thou for me, O GOD the Lord, for thy name's sake: because thy mercy [is] good, deliver thou me.

Psalms 119:40

¶ Behold, I have longed after thy precepts: quicken me in thy righteousness.

Psalms 5:2

Hearken unto the voice of my cry, my King, and my God: for unto thee will I pray.

Psalms 5:3

My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O LORD; in the morning will I direct [my prayer] unto thee, and will look up.