Psalms 119:42

So shall I have wherewith to answer him that reproacheth me: for I trust in thy word.

So shall I have wherewith {H1697} to answer {H6030} him that reproacheth {H2778} me: for I trust {H982} in thy word {H1697}.

then I will have an answer for those who taunt me; for I trust in your word.

Then I can answer him who taunts, for I trust in Your word.

So shall I have an answer for him that reproacheth me; For I trust in thy word.

Commentary

Commentary on Psalms 119:42

Psalms 119:42 declares the psalmist's unwavering confidence, stating, "So shall I have wherewith to answer him that reproacheth me: for I trust in thy word." This verse encapsulates a core theme of the longest psalm: the profound power and reliability of God's Word in the face of human opposition.

Context

Psalm 119 is an extended meditation on the divine law, precepts, statutes, and testimonies—all facets of God's revealed Word. Throughout its 176 verses, the psalmist expresses deep devotion, a yearning to obey, and a constant reliance on this Word amidst various forms of affliction and scorn. In this specific section (verses 41-48, the 'Vav' stanza), the psalmist prays for God's steadfast love and salvation to come to him, recognizing that such divine intervention will equip him to stand firm against his detractors. The verse immediately preceding this one, Psalms 119:41, asks for God's mercies and salvation, setting the stage for the ability to answer reproach.

Key Themes

  • Trust in God's Word: The foundation of the psalmist's confidence is his absolute trust in God's revelation. This trust is not merely intellectual assent but a deep, abiding reliance on the truth and faithfulness of God's promises and commands. It is the ultimate source of strength and wisdom.
  • Defense Against Reproach: The psalmist anticipates facing those who "reproach" him—critics, mockers, or those who question his faith or integrity. God's Word serves as his complete defense, providing both the wisdom to respond and the inner fortitude to endure. It's a conviction that the truth, as found in God's Word, will ultimately vindicate him.
  • Confidence in Faith: This verse highlights how deep faith in God's Word leads to boldness and assurance. When one's life and beliefs are rooted in divine truth, external attacks lose their power to destabilize or shame. This echoes the broader biblical principle of trusting in the Lord with all your heart.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "reproacheth" is charaph (חרף), which signifies taunting, insulting, defying, or shaming. It implies an attack on one's character, beliefs, or actions. The psalmist expects to be able to "answer" (ענה - anah) these accusations, not necessarily with clever rhetoric, but with the quiet confidence that comes from living by and trusting in God's truth. The word "trust" is batach (בטח), which conveys a sense of leaning on, confiding in, or feeling secure in something. It speaks to a deep, unshakeable reliance.

Practical Application

For believers today, Psalms 119:42 offers profound encouragement. In a world often hostile to faith, Christians may face reproach, mockery, or challenges to their convictions. This verse reminds us that our defense is not primarily in our own cleverness or arguments, but in our steadfast trust in God's Word.

  • Equipped for Challenges: By knowing and living by God's Word, we are equipped to address criticisms, doubts, and spiritual attacks. The Bible provides answers to life's deepest questions and a moral compass for navigating complex situations. As 2 Timothy 3:16-17 teaches, "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works."
  • Living Out Truth: Our most powerful "answer" to reproach is often a life consistently lived in accordance with God's Word, demonstrating its transformative power.
  • Source of Confidence: When we are rooted in Scripture, we gain an inner peace and confidence that transcends external circumstances, allowing us to stand firm even when others attempt to shame or discredit us.
Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Acts 27:25

    Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer: for I believe God, that it shall be even as it was told me.

  • Proverbs 27:11

    ¶ My son, be wise, and make my heart glad, that I may answer him that reproacheth me.

  • Matthew 27:63

    Saying, Sir, we remember that that deceiver said, while he was yet alive, After three days I will rise again.

  • Psalms 119:49

    ¶ ZAIN. Remember the word unto thy servant, upon which thou hast caused me to hope.

  • 2 Samuel 16:7

    And thus said Shimei when he cursed, Come out, come out, thou bloody man, and thou man of Belial:

  • 2 Samuel 16:8

    The LORD hath returned upon thee all the blood of the house of Saul, in whose stead thou hast reigned; and the LORD hath delivered the kingdom into the hand of Absalom thy son: and, behold, thou [art taken] in thy mischief, because thou [art] a bloody man.

  • Psalms 119:81

    ¶ CAPH. My soul fainteth for thy salvation: [but] I hope in thy word.