Psalms 25:5

KJV

Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou [art] the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day.

KJV (with Strong's)

Lead {H1869} me in thy truth {H571}, and teach {H3925} me: for thou art the God {H430} of my salvation {H3468}; on thee do I wait {H6960} all the day {H3117}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Guide me in your truth, and teach me; for you are the God who saves me, my hope is in you all day long.

Berean Standard Bible

Guide me in Your truth and teach me, for You are the God of my salvation; all day long I wait for You.

American Standard Version

Guide me in thy truth, and teach me; For thou art the God of my salvation; For thee do I wait all the day.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalm 25:5 is a profound and heartfelt prayer by David, expressing a deep and unwavering reliance on God for divine guidance, instruction, and ultimate deliverance. It encapsulates a humble posture of seeking God's unerring truth, a steadfast commitment to patient and enduring trust in His character, and an acknowledgment of Him as the sole source of salvation amidst life's multifaceted challenges.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalm 25 is an acrostic psalm, though its adherence to the Hebrew alphabet is not perfectly consistent, and it is attributed to King David. It is primarily a lament and a fervent petition, characterized by earnest pleas for forgiveness of sin, protection from adversaries, and divine guidance in a time of distress. The psalmist feels burdened by past transgressions and surrounded by enemies. Verse 5, "Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day," serves as a pivotal declaration of trust and a fervent request for divine instruction. It anchors the psalmist's hope in God's faithful character, following earlier verses where David expresses shame and appeals to God's tender mercies and lovingkindnesses, thereby setting the theological stage for his subsequent pleas for direction and salvation. The verse functions as a central declaration of dependence within a broader prayer for vindication and spiritual clarity.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** David's life, as chronicled in [the books of Samuel and Kings](/1_samuel/1 "The Books of 1 and 2 Samuel and 1 and 2 Kings"), was replete with periods of intense pressure, betrayal, and personal moral failures, alongside his triumphs as king. In ancient Israel, the concept of "truth" (Hebrew: *'emet*) was far more comprehensive than mere factual accuracy; it embodied faithfulness, reliability, and moral integrity, reflecting the unchanging nature of God's character and the trustworthiness of His covenant promises. "Salvation" (Hebrew: *yeshua*) referred to a holistic deliverance, encompassing rescue from physical enemies, healing from sickness, and liberation from the consequences of sin. The spiritual discipline of "waiting" (Hebrew: *qavah*) on God was a deeply ingrained practice, signifying an active, hopeful expectation and a steadfast reliance on God's timely intervention, rather than passive idleness. This posture was not merely a theological concept but a vital necessity for spiritual flourishing and physical survival in a volatile world where human solutions were often insufficient or fleeting.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully encapsulates several major themes prevalent throughout Psalm 25 and the broader Psalter. The urgent plea for God to "Lead me in thy truth, and teach me" underscores the theme of **Divine Guidance and Revelation**, emphasizing that true wisdom and direction for life come exclusively from God's unerring word and character. This foundational truth is echoed throughout Scripture, as seen in [Psalm 119:105](/psalms/119-105 "Psalm 119:105 - Your Word is a Lamp to My Feet"). David's declaration, "for thou art the God of my salvation," highlights the theme of **God as the Sole Source of Deliverance**, encompassing both physical rescue from adversaries and spiritual redemption from sin. This truth is a cornerstone of biblical theology, powerfully articulated in passages like [Psalm 62:1](/psalms/62-1 "Psalm 62:1 - My Soul Waits for God Alone"). Finally, the phrase "on thee do I wait all the day" profoundly conveys the theme of **Patient and Persistent Trust**, signifying an active, continuous, and hopeful expectation in God's perfect timing and provision, a concept beautifully articulated in [Isaiah 40:31](/isaiah/40-31 "Isaiah 40:31 - Those Who Wait on the Lord Shall Renew Their Strength").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Truth (Hebrew, _'emeth'_):** This Hebrew word (H571) stems from a root meaning "to be firm, reliable." It signifies stability, certainty, and trustworthiness. In this context, "truth" refers to God's inherent faithfulness, His unchanging character, and the reliability of His revealed word and promises. To be led in God's *'emeth* means to walk in alignment with His unwavering nature and His dependable instructions, which provide a sure and steady foundation for life.
* **Teach (Hebrew, _lâmad'_):** This Hebrew verb (H3925) is a primitive root meaning "to goad," which by implication means "to teach" or "to instruct." It suggests a process of disciplined training, shaping understanding, and forming behavior. David's plea is for God to actively impart wisdom and understanding, guiding his path and actions according to divine principles, not merely to provide information but to cultivate skill and knowledge in righteous living.
* **Wait (Hebrew, _qâvâh'_):** This Hebrew verb (H6960) is a primitive root meaning "to bind together" or "to collect." Figuratively, it means "to expect" or "to hope." It conveys a strong sense of hopeful expectation, active anticipation, and steadfast endurance. It implies clinging to God with unwavering trust, rather than passive idleness. To "wait all the day" signifies a continuous, unwavering reliance and a deep attachment to God as the sole object of one's hope, regardless of immediate circumstances or the duration of the trial.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Lead me in thy truth":** This clause expresses a humble and urgent plea for divine direction. David recognizes his own fallibility and the profound need for God's unerring guidance. "Thy truth" refers to God's character, His reliable word, and His faithful way of operating in the world. It is a request for God to direct his steps in accordance with what is real, reliable, and consistent with God's very nature and moral order.
* **"and teach me":** This clause reinforces the preceding request, emphasizing the necessity of divine instruction. David desires not merely to be led passively, but to actively understand *how* to walk in God's truth. It implies a deep desire for spiritual formation, for God to impart wisdom and understanding that will enable him to navigate life's complexities with righteousness and discernment.
* **"for thou [art] the God of my salvation":** This phrase provides the foundational reason for David's plea and the wellspring of his confidence. His requests for guidance and instruction are rooted in his absolute conviction that God is his ultimate deliverer and rescuer. This "salvation" is comprehensive, encompassing protection from enemies, deliverance from distress, and forgiveness of sins, thereby establishing God as the sole source of his hope and security in all circumstances.
* **"on thee do I wait all the day":** This concluding declaration expresses a profound and continuous posture of dependence. "Waiting all the day" signifies an unceasing, active, and hopeful expectation in God's perfect timing and provision. It is a commitment to steadfast trust, acknowledging that God's intervention is certain, even if delayed, and that His ways are always perfect and ultimately for the psalmist's good.

#### Literary Devices
Psalm 25:5 employs several powerful literary devices that enhance its emotional and theological impact. The entire verse functions as a fervent **Prayer**, a direct and intimate address from the psalmist to God, revealing a deep personal relationship and profound dependence. The phrase "Lead me in thy truth" uses **Metaphor**, portraying God as a guide who directs the psalmist's path, much like a shepherd leads his flock. This imagery implies a journey and a desired destination, with God as the unerring navigator. The concept of "truth" itself is almost **Personified** as a path or a way in which one can be led, suggesting its active and guiding nature. The declaration "for thou art the God of my salvation" is a powerful **Confession** and **Affirmation** of faith, serving as the theological bedrock for the preceding requests and the subsequent commitment to wait. Finally, the phrase "all the day" is an example of **Hyperbole** or **Merism**, signifying continuous, uninterrupted waiting, emphasizing the psalmist's unwavering and persistent reliance on God throughout every moment and season of life.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalm 25:5 resonates deeply with the broader biblical narrative of humanity's inherent need for divine guidance and God's unwavering faithfulness in providing it. It underscores the essential truth that human wisdom is ultimately insufficient for navigating life's complexities, and that true direction, wisdom, and purpose come exclusively from God, who is both the source of all truth and the ultimate deliverer. This verse highlights a posture of profound humility and absolute dependence, recognizing God's sovereignty over all circumstances and His perfect timing. The "truth" sought is not merely intellectual assent to doctrines but a comprehensive way of life, aligning one's entire path with God's revealed character and His righteous will. The "salvation" is presented as comprehensive, addressing both immediate dangers and the deeper, spiritual need for redemption from sin. The "waiting" is portrayed as an active spiritual discipline, demonstrating faith in God's promises even when answers are not immediately apparent or circumstances remain challenging.

* [Proverbs 3:5-6](/proverbs/3-5-6 "Proverbs 3:5-6 - Trust in the Lord with All Your Heart")
* [Psalm 27:14](/psalms/27-14 "Psalm 27:14 - Wait on the Lord; Be of Good Courage")
* [Isaiah 26:3](/isaiah/26-3 "Isaiah 26:3 - You Will Keep Him in Perfect Peace")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalm 25:5 offers a timeless and profound blueprint for the believer's walk, calling us to cultivate a posture of humble dependence and active, enduring trust. In a world saturated with information, competing voices, and often conflicting ideologies, the psalmist's earnest plea to "Lead me in thy truth, and teach me" serves as a powerful reminder of our profound and ongoing need for divine wisdom that transcends mere human understanding. This is a daily invitation to surrender our own plans, biases, and limited perspectives, seeking God's unerring guidance through the consistent study of His Word and the illumination of His Spirit. Furthermore, anchoring our hope in "the God of my salvation" provides an unshakable foundation amidst life's inevitable storms. Whether facing personal struggles, societal chaos, or spiritual battles, remembering that our ultimate deliverance and security come from Him alone instills profound peace, courage, and resilience. Finally, the call to "wait all the day" challenges us to cultivate patient endurance, trusting God's perfect timing and sovereign plan even when circumstances seem bleak, answers are delayed, or the path ahead is unclear. This active waiting is not passive resignation but a dynamic, hopeful expectation that deepens our faith, refines our character, and strengthens our communion with the Lord.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific areas of your life do you most urgently need God to "lead you in His truth" and "teach you" today?**
* **How does consistently recognizing God as "the God of your salvation" transform your perspective and approach to current challenges or anxieties?**
* **What does it practically look like for you to "wait all the day" on the Lord in your present circumstances, and what spiritual disciplines might help you cultivate this posture?**

### FAQ
**What does "truth" mean in the context of Psalm 25:5?**

Answer: In Psalm 25:5, "truth" (Hebrew: *'emeth*) is far more profound than mere factual accuracy. It refers to God's inherent character of reliability, faithfulness, and consistency. It encompasses His unchangeable nature, His trustworthy covenant promises, and the integrity of His revealed will and instructions. When David prays, "Lead me in thy truth," he is asking God to guide him in a way of living that is consistent with God's own faithful and righteous character, aligning his path with divine reality and moral integrity. It's about walking in God's reliable way, not just knowing facts about Him or adhering to abstract principles.

**Why is "waiting on God" emphasized so strongly in this verse and throughout the Psalms?**

Answer: "Waiting on God" (Hebrew: *qavah*) is a crucial spiritual discipline emphasized throughout the Psalms because it signifies active, hopeful expectation and enduring trust, rather than passive idleness or resignation. In Psalm 25:5, "on thee do I wait all the day" expresses a continuous, unwavering reliance on God's timing and provision. It acknowledges God's sovereignty and perfect wisdom, trusting that He will act in His own time and in His own way, which is always best for His children. This posture cultivates patience, perseverance, and a deeper dependence on God, reminding the believer that true strength, deliverance, and ultimate vindication come from Him alone, as beautifully articulated in [Psalm 27:14](/psalms/27-14 "Psalm 27:14 - Wait on the Lord").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalm 25:5 finds its ultimate and most glorious fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ, who perfectly embodies the truth, provides the definitive salvation, and is the ultimate object of our patient waiting. When David prays, "Lead me in thy truth, and teach me," he is longing for the very revelation and guidance that is fully and perfectly manifested in Christ. Jesus Himself declared, "I am the way, the **truth**, and the life; no one comes to the Father except through Me" ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life")). He is the living embodiment of God's reliable and consistent character, and through His indwelling Spirit, He continues to lead and teach His disciples into all truth ([John 16:13](/john/16-13 "John 16:13 - The Spirit of Truth Will Guide You")). Furthermore, David's declaration, "for thou art the God of my **salvation**," points directly to Jesus as the ultimate and exclusive Savior. He is the "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")), securing eternal salvation for all who believe through His atoning sacrifice on the cross ([Hebrews 9:28](/hebrews/9-28 "Hebrews 9:28 - Christ Offered Once to Bear the Sins of Many")). Finally, David's profound commitment to "on thee do I **wait** all the day" finds its truest expression in the New Testament believer's patient endurance and hopeful expectation for Christ's glorious return and the consummation of His kingdom ([Romans 8:25](/romans/8-25 "Romans 8:25 - We Wait with Perseverance for Hope")). Our waiting is not in vain, for we wait for the one who has already secured our salvation and will ultimately bring all things to their glorious completion in Him ([Philippians 3:20-21](/philippians/3-20-21 "Philippians 3:20-21 - Our Citizenship is in Heaven")).

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

Proverbs 8:34

Blessed [is] the man that heareth me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors.

Psalms 25:10

All the paths of the LORD [are] mercy and truth unto such as keep his covenant and his testimonies.

Isaiah 30:18

¶ And therefore will the LORD wait, that he may be gracious unto you, and therefore will he be exalted, that he may have mercy upon you: for the LORD [is] a God of judgment: blessed [are] all they that wait for him.

Psalms 43:3

O send out thy light and thy truth: let them lead me; let them bring me unto thy holy hill, and to thy tabernacles.

Psalms 43:4

Then will I go unto the altar of God, unto God my exceeding joy: yea, upon the harp will I praise thee, O God my God.

John 14:26

But the Comforter, [which is] the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.

Revelation 7:17

For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes.