The secret of the LORD [is] with them that fear him; and he will shew them his covenant.
The secret {H5475} of the LORD {H3068} is with them that fear {H3373} him; and he will shew {H3045} them his covenant {H1285}.
ADONAI relates intimately with those who fear him; he makes them know his covenant.
The LORD confides in those who fear Him, and reveals His covenant to them.
The friendship of Jehovah is with them that fear him; And he will show them his covenant.
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John 15:15
Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you. -
John 14:21
He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him. -
John 14:23
Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. -
John 7:17
If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or [whether] I speak of myself. -
Ephesians 1:9
Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself: -
1 Corinthians 2:14
But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know [them], because they are spiritually discerned. -
Ephesians 1:18
The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints,
Psalm 25:14 (KJV) offers a profound insight into the nature of God's relationship with His devout followers. It reveals that a deep, confidential understanding of the Lord is reserved for those who hold Him in reverent awe, and to them, He will unveil the truths of His divine covenant.
Context
Psalm 25 is a prayer of David, an acrostic psalm where each verse (or pair of verses) begins with a successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet. Throughout the psalm, David cries out for guidance, forgiveness, and deliverance from his enemies. Amidst these petitions, verse 14 stands out as a declaration of hope and reassurance, highlighting the special relationship God shares with those who truly seek Him and live in accordance with His will. It underscores the principle that divine wisdom and understanding are not indiscriminately given but are a privilege bestowed upon the obedient and reverent.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The Hebrew word for "secret" here is sôd (סוֹד), which can mean "council," "intimate circle," "confidential talk," or "secret." It emphasizes the idea of close communion and shared confidences, suggesting that God treats those who fear Him as His trusted companions, revealing His heart and plans to them. The phrase "fear him" comes from the Hebrew yir'ah (יִרְאָה), which denotes awe, reverence, and respect, rather than mere terror. It's a foundational attitude of humility and obedience before the Almighty.
Practical Application
Psalm 25:14 encourages believers to cultivate a heart of reverence and obedience towards God. It assures us that as we humble ourselves before Him and seek to walk in His ways, He will grant us deeper insights into His character, His will, and His eternal plan. This isn't about exclusive knowledge for a select few, but about the spiritual discernment available to all who genuinely pursue an intimate relationship with Him. By consistently seeking God through prayer, studying His Word, and living in obedience, we position ourselves to experience the profound privilege of knowing God more deeply and understanding His covenant faithfulness in our lives. It reminds us that God desires friendship, not just distant worship.