Psalms 37:25

I have been young, and [now] am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread.

I have been young {H5288}, and now am old {H2204}; yet have I not seen {H7200}{H8804)} the righteous {H6662} forsaken {H5800}{H8737)}, nor his seed {H2233} begging {H1245}{H8764)} bread {H3899}.

I have been young; now I am old; yet not once have I seen the righteous abandoned or his descendants begging for bread.

I once was young and now am old, yet never have I seen the righteous abandoned or their children begging for bread.

I have been young, and now am old; Yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, Nor his seed begging bread.

Commentary

Psalm 37:25 is a powerful declaration of God's faithfulness, presented as a personal testimony from King David. It reassures believers that those who live righteously under God's care will not be utterly abandoned or left in destitution.

Context of Psalm 37

This verse is part of a wisdom psalm, likely written by David, which addresses the common human struggle of observing the prosperity of the wicked while the righteous often face hardship. The psalm's overarching theme is to trust in the Lord, delight in Him, and commit one's way to Him, rather than fretting over evildoers. David encourages a long-term perspective, emphasizing God's ultimate justice and provision for His people.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Faithfulness and Provision: The core message is God's unwavering commitment to His people. David, having lived a full life, testifies that he has never witnessed a righteous person, or their descendants, begging for food. This speaks to God's reliable provision and care, even when circumstances seem dire.
  • Security of the Righteous: The verse highlights the spiritual and practical security that comes from living a life aligned with God's will. While not promising exemption from all trials, it assures that ultimate abandonment or complete destitution is not the lot of the righteous. This contrasts sharply with the temporary nature of the wicked's prosperity.
  • Generational Blessing: The phrase "nor his seed begging bread" emphasizes that God's blessing and care extend beyond an individual to their offspring. This concept of generational blessings is a recurring theme in Scripture, reinforcing the lasting impact of a righteous life.
  • Personal Testimony: David's statement, "I have been young, and now am old," lends significant weight to the observation. It's not a theoretical assertion but a lived experience, underscoring the consistent nature of God's character throughout a lifetime.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "forsaken" is 'azab (ืขึธื–ึทื‘), which means to abandon, desert, or leave completely. David's testimony is that God does not completely abandon the righteous. The term "seed" (zera' - ื–ึถืจึทืข) refers to offspring or descendants, emphasizing the lasting impact of God's covenant faithfulness across generations.

Practical Application

Psalm 37:25 offers immense comfort and encouragement in several ways:

  • Trust in God's Providence: It challenges us to look beyond immediate circumstances and place our trust in God's unfailing provision. Even when resources are scarce, this verse reminds us that God is our provider and will not allow His faithful ones to be utterly destitute. As Jesus taught, when we seek God's kingdom first, our needs will be met.
  • Hope for the Future: For those concerned about their legacy or the well-being of their children, this verse provides hope. Living a righteous life can have a positive, lasting impact on future generations.
  • Perspective on Adversity: It helps us maintain perspective when we see the wicked prosper or when we ourselves face difficulties. David's long life taught him that God's care is constant, even if it doesn't always manifest in immediate earthly riches. God promises never to leave nor forsake His people.
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Cross-References

  • Hebrews 13:5 (35 votes)

    [Let your] conversation [be] without covetousness; [and be] content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.

  • Psalms 37:28 (32 votes)

    For the LORD loveth judgment, and forsaketh not his saints; they are preserved for ever: but the seed of the wicked shall be cut off.

  • Psalms 112:2 (28 votes)

    His seed shall be mighty upon earth: the generation of the upright shall be blessed.

  • Psalms 25:13 (28 votes)

    His soul shall dwell at ease; and his seed shall inherit the earth.

  • 1 Samuel 12:22 (27 votes)

    For the LORD will not forsake his people for his great name's sake: because it hath pleased the LORD to make you his people.

  • 2 Corinthians 4:9 (22 votes)

    Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;

  • Psalms 94:14 (21 votes)

    For the LORD will not cast off his people, neither will he forsake his inheritance.