Psalms 41:2

The LORD will preserve him, and keep him alive; [and] he shall be blessed upon the earth: and thou wilt not deliver him unto the will of his enemies.

The LORD {H3068} will preserve {H8104}{H8799)} him, and keep him alive {H2421}{H8762)}; and he shall be blessed {H833}{H8795)} upon the earth {H776}: and thou wilt not deliver {H5414}{H8799)} him unto the will {H5315} of his enemies {H341}{H8802)}.

ADONAI will preserve them, keep them alive, and make them happy in the land. You will not hand them over to the whims of their enemies.

The LORD will protect and preserve him; He will bless him in the land and refuse to surrender him to the will of his foes.

Jehovah will preserve him, and keep him alive, And he shall be blessed upon the earth; And deliver not thou him unto the will of his enemies.

This verse from Psalm 41:2 provides a powerful promise of divine protection and blessing for the one who demonstrates compassion, as described in the preceding verse (Psalm 41:1). It shifts focus from the character of the compassionate person to the specific, tangible benefits they receive from the LORD.

Context

Psalm 41 is traditionally attributed to David, likely written during a time of personal suffering (sickness) and betrayal by close associates, while also facing opposition from enemies. The psalm begins by pronouncing a blessing on those who consider the poor and needy (Psalm 41:1). Verse 2 then details the specific ways the LORD responds to such kindness and faith, promising preservation and protection in the face of adversity, particularly from the schemes of enemies.

Key Themes

  • Divine Preservation: The core promise is that the LORD Himself will protect the life and well-being of the righteous.
  • Blessing on Earth: The verse assures tangible blessings and prosperity ("blessed upon the earth"), indicating God's favor extends to the present life.
  • Protection from Enemies: A specific assurance is given that God will not allow the compassionate individual to fall prey to the malicious desires ("the will") of their adversaries.
  • Reward for Righteousness/Compassion: It highlights the principle that God honors and safeguards those who live according to His heart, especially in their treatment of the vulnerable.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "preserve" (shamar) means to guard, watch over, protect, or keep. It implies active, careful oversight by God. "Keep him alive" (chayah) suggests not just sustaining life but potentially restoring health or vitality, fitting the context of sickness in the psalm. The phrase "blessed upon the earth" uses a form of ashar, related to happiness, prosperity, and being fortunate or favored.

Reflection and Application

Psalm 41:2 serves as a comforting reminder of God's faithfulness to those who are faithful to Him and show compassion to others. It teaches us that our actions, particularly those reflecting God's own kindness, do not go unnoticed and are met with divine favor and protection. While not promising a life free from all trouble, it assures believers that their ultimate security is in the LORD's hands. We can trust that God watches over us and will not allow us to be utterly defeated by those who wish us harm, whether physical or spiritual enemies. This promise encourages us to continue walking in righteousness and compassion, knowing our safety is in the name of the LORD. It underscores the truth that if God is for us, who can be against us?

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Jeremiah 45:4

    Thus shalt thou say unto him, The LORD saith thus; Behold, [that] which I have built will I break down, and that which I have planted I will pluck up, even this whole land.

  • Jeremiah 45:5

    And seekest thou great things for thyself? seek [them] not: for, behold, I will bring evil upon all flesh, saith the LORD: but thy life will I give unto thee for a prey in all places whither thou goest.

  • Psalms 27:12

    Deliver me not over unto the will of mine enemies: for false witnesses are risen up against me, and such as breathe out cruelty.

  • 1 Timothy 4:8

    For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come.

  • Psalms 37:32

    The wicked watcheth the righteous, and seeketh to slay him.

  • Psalms 37:33

    The LORD will not leave him in his hand, nor condemn him when he is judged.

  • Psalms 37:22

    For [such as be] blessed of him shall inherit the earth; and [they that be] cursed of him shall be cut off.

Add TrulyRandomVerse to your Home Screen for quick access!

← Back