Psalms 145:14

The LORD upholdeth all that fall, and raiseth up all [those that be] bowed down.

The LORD {H3068} upholdeth {H5564} all that fall {H5307}, and raiseth up {H2210} all those that be bowed down {H3721}.

ADONAI supports all who fall and lifts up all who are bent over.

The LORD upholds all who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down.

Jehovah upholdeth all that fall, And raiseth up all those that are bowed down.

Commentary

Psalm 145:14 is a beautiful declaration of God's compassionate character and His active involvement in the lives of His people. Part of a psalm of praise by David, this verse highlights the Lord's unwavering support and restorative power.

Context

Psalm 145 is known as "David's Psalm of Praise" and is an acrostic psalm, with each verse (or pair of verses in some traditions) beginning with a successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet. It systematically extols the attributes of God, including His greatness, goodness, power, faithfulness, and compassion. Verse 14 specifically transitions from broader declarations of God's reign and works to His direct care for individuals, demonstrating His goodness and mercy extend to all His creation, particularly those in need.

Key Themes

  • Divine Support and Upholding: The phrase "upholdeth all that fall" speaks to God's active intervention to prevent complete collapse or to lift up those who stumble, whether physically, morally, or spiritually. It reassures believers that even in moments of weakness or failure, God's hand is there to prevent their utter ruin. This theme resonates with Psalm 37:24, which states, "Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the LORD upholdeth him with his hand."
  • Compassion for the Oppressed: "Raiseth up all [those that be] bowed down" emphasizes God's tender care for the afflicted, the disheartened, the grieving, or those burdened by life's difficulties. This includes the poor, the sick, the sorrowful, and the oppressed. It signifies God's desire and power to elevate their spirits, restore their hope, and alleviate their suffering. It brings to mind the invitation in Matthew 11:28, "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest."
  • God's Faithfulness and Goodness: Underlying both actions is the consistent nature of the Lord. He is not capricious but reliably good and faithful to those who trust in Him. His actions are an extension of His character, as described throughout Psalm 145.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "upholdeth" is samakh (ืกึธืžึทืšึฐ), which means to lean upon, to support, to sustain. It conveys the idea of a strong, reliable backing. The phrase "bowed down" comes from kafaf (ื›ึผึธืคึทืฃ), meaning to bend, to bow, often implying a state of oppression, grief, or humility due to hardship. The imagery is vivid: God is the one who props up the falling and straightens the bent.

Practical Application

This verse offers immense comfort and encouragement for believers today. It reminds us that:

  • God is Present in Our Weakness: When we feel like we are stumbling or falling short, we can trust that the Lord is there to support us, not to condemn.
  • Hope for the Heavy-Laden: If you are feeling overwhelmed, burdened by sorrow, or oppressed by circumstances, this verse is a promise that God sees your condition and is able to lift you up. It encourages us to bring our burdens to Him, knowing He cares for us (see 1 Peter 5:7).
  • Call to Emulate God's Character: As recipients of such divine care, we are also called to show similar compassion and support to those around us who are falling or bowed down, reflecting God's character in our interactions.

Psalm 145:14 serves as a powerful affirmation of God's unwavering compassion and His active role as our Divine Upholder and Lifter.

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Cross-References

  • Psalms 146:8

    The LORD openeth [the eyes of] the blind: the LORD raiseth them that are bowed down: the LORD loveth the righteous:

  • Psalms 37:24

    Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the LORD upholdeth [him with] his hand.

  • Psalms 94:18

    When I said, My foot slippeth; thy mercy, O LORD, held me up.

  • Luke 22:31

    And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired [to have] you, that he may sift [you] as wheat:

  • Luke 22:32

    But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.

  • Luke 13:11

    And, behold, there was a woman which had a spirit of infirmity eighteen years, and was bowed together, and could in no wise lift up [herself].

  • Luke 13:13

    And he laid [his] hands on her: and immediately she was made straight, and glorified God.