Psalms 69:6

KJV

Let not them that wait on thee, O Lord GOD of hosts, be ashamed for my sake: let not those that seek thee be confounded for my sake, O God of Israel.

KJV (with Strong's)

Let not them that wait {H6960}{H8802)} on thee, O Lord {H136} GOD {H3069} of hosts {H6635}, be ashamed {H954}{H8799)} for my sake: let not those that seek {H1245}{H8764)} thee be confounded {H3637}{H8735)} for my sake, O God {H430} of Israel {H3478}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Let those who put their hope in you, Adonai ELOHIM-Tzva'ot, not be put to shame through me; let those who are seeking you, God of Isra'el, not be disgraced through me.

Berean Standard Bible

May those who hope in You not be ashamed through me, O Lord GOD of Hosts; may those who seek You not be dishonored through me, O God of Israel.

American Standard Version

Let not them that wait for thee be put to shame through me, O Lord Jehovah of hosts: Let not those that seek thee be brought to dishonor through me, O God of Israel.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 69:6 presents a profound intercessory plea from the Psalmist, likely David, in the midst of intense personal suffering. His primary concern extends beyond his own distress to the potential impact his perceived disgrace might have on the wider community of believers. He fervently prays that those who faithfully trust in and seek the Lord would not be shamed or disillusioned because of his circumstances, thereby safeguarding God's honor and the integrity of His people's faith.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalm 69 is one of the most significant and frequently quoted psalms of lament in the New Testament. It vividly portrays the Psalmist's deep anguish, feeling overwhelmed by enemies, alienated from friends and family, and even experiencing the reproach of God. The psalm is characterized by desperate cries for deliverance, appeals to God's justice, and imprecations against adversaries. Verse 6 marks a pivotal shift from the Psalmist's personal suffering and direct pleas for rescue (e.g., [Psalms 69:1-5](/psalms/69-1 "Psalms 69:1-5 - The Psalmist's Deep Distress")) to a broader, communal concern for God's reputation and the faith of His people. This transition highlights the Psalmist's theological maturity, demonstrating that his suffering is not merely a private affair but has implications for the collective witness of Israel. The subsequent verses continue to detail his suffering and appeals for divine judgment, but this verse stands out as an act of selfless intercession.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** While traditionally attributed to David, the specific historical context for Psalm 69 is debated, though it clearly arises from a period of intense persecution and public humiliation. The Psalmist's lament reflects the societal shame associated with suffering, especially if it was perceived as divine judgment or a sign of God's abandonment. In ancient Israel, a person's standing, and by extension, the honor of their God, was intrinsically linked to their prosperity and deliverance. If a prominent figure, particularly one who "waited on" and "sought" the Lord, appeared to be forsaken, it could cause others to question God's faithfulness or power. The mention of "Lord GOD of hosts" and "God of Israel" invokes covenantal loyalty and God's supreme authority, emphasizing the Psalmist's appeal to God's character as the protector of His people and His name. The cultural expectation was that God would vindicate His faithful ones, and failure to do so could bring reproach upon His name among both believers and surrounding nations.

* **Key Themes:** Psalms 69:6 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the Psalter and biblical theology. Firstly, it underscores the profound importance of **God's Reputation and Honor**. The Psalmist's primary concern is not just his own relief but that his suffering would not bring discredit to God or cause those who trust Him to feel foolish. This theme resonates throughout Scripture, where God's glory is paramount (e.g., [Isaiah 48:11](/isaiah/48-11 "Isaiah 48:11 - For My Own Sake")). Secondly, it exemplifies **Intercessory Prayer**, moving beyond self-interest to pray for the spiritual well-being of the community and the preservation of faith. This communal spirit is a hallmark of true piety. Thirdly, despite overwhelming distress, the verse affirms **Unwavering Trust in God's Faithfulness**. The Psalmist identifies with those who "wait on" and "seek" God, indicating his own continued reliance on God's ultimate deliverance. Finally, it highlights the **Interconnectedness of the Community of Faith**, where the trials of one can impact the faith of many, emphasizing mutual accountability and shared spiritual destiny within the covenant people.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Lord GOD of hosts (Hebrew, _Yahweh Elohim Sabaoth'_):** This majestic and powerful divine title emphasizes God's supreme sovereignty, His role as commander of all heavenly armies and earthly forces. The inclusion of "Yahweh" (the covenant name) signifies His personal, relational faithfulness to His people, while "Elohim Sabaoth" (God of Hosts) denotes His omnipotence and ability to intervene decisively in any situation. Appealing to God by this name underscores the Psalmist's conviction that God is fully capable of defending His name and His people, even in the direst circumstances.
* **wait on thee (Hebrew, _qavah'_):** This word signifies much more than passive waiting; it implies an active, hopeful expectation, patient endurance, and deep reliance. It suggests a spiritual posture of clinging to God, trusting in His timing and His ultimate intervention, even when circumstances seem bleak. It speaks of a confident anticipation rooted in God's character and promises, a steadfast hope that refuses to be shaken by present trials.
* **seek thee (Hebrew, _darash'_):** This term conveys a diligent, earnest, and intentional pursuit of God. It means to inquire of Him, to frequent His presence, to consult Him, and to earnestly desire His will and guidance. It denotes a proactive spiritual discipline of drawing near to God, not merely in times of crisis, but as a continuous way of life, seeking His face and His righteousness above all else.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Let not them that wait on thee, O Lord GOD of hosts, be ashamed for my sake:"** This clause expresses the Psalmist's primary concern. He intercedes for those who actively and patiently trust in God, appealing to God's ultimate authority as "Lord GOD of hosts." The fear is that his own public suffering or apparent lack of divine intervention might cause these faithful ones to feel disgraced, humiliated, or foolish for having placed their hope in God. The phrase "for my sake" indicates that the Psalmist recognizes his personal circumstances have implications beyond himself, potentially reflecting poorly on God's faithfulness to His people.
* **"let not those that seek thee be confounded for my sake, O God of Israel."** This second clause functions as a synonymous parallel, reinforcing the first. "Confounded" carries a similar meaning to "ashamed," implying confusion, disappointment, or being put to shame. The "God of Israel" title emphasizes God's covenant relationship with His chosen people, highlighting His commitment to vindicate those who earnestly pursue Him. The repetition of "for my sake" underscores the Psalmist's profound awareness that his personal ordeal is a test not only of his faith but also of God's reputation among His devoted followers.

#### Literary Devices
The verse primarily employs **Synonymous Parallelism**, a common feature in Hebrew poetry, where the second line reiterates or elaborates on the thought of the first line using different words. "Them that wait on thee" is paralleled by "those that seek thee," and "be ashamed" by "be confounded." This repetition serves to emphasize the Psalmist's earnest plea and the gravity of his concern for the faithful community. The use of direct address, "O Lord GOD of hosts" and "O God of Israel," is a form of **Apostrophe**, lending a personal and urgent tone to the prayer. The entire psalm is a **Lament**, and this verse specifically functions as an **Intercession**, demonstrating the Psalmist's selfless concern for God's glory and the faith of others amidst his personal distress.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 69:6 powerfully articulates a deep theological truth: the individual's spiritual journey is inextricably linked to the corporate witness of God's people and, ultimately, to God's own honor. The Psalmist's prayer reveals a profound understanding that if a prominent figure of faith appears to be abandoned or disgraced, it can cause others to stumble or question God's faithfulness. This concern for God's reputation and the integrity of the community's faith transcends personal suffering, elevating the prayer to a truly selfless act of intercession. It reminds us that our endurance in trials can either strengthen or weaken the faith of those around us, calling us to live in a manner that consistently glorifies God, even in adversity.

* [Isaiah 40:31](/isaiah/40-31 "Isaiah 40:31 - Strength for Those Who Wait on the Lord")
* [Jeremiah 29:13](/jeremiah/29-13 "Jeremiah 29:13 - Seeking God with All Your Heart")
* [Romans 15:3](/romans/15-3 "Romans 15:3 - Christ Endured Reproach")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalms 69:6 challenges believers to consider the broader implications of their faith journey, particularly in times of trial. It compels us to move beyond a purely individualistic understanding of suffering and to embrace a communal perspective, recognizing that our perseverance (or lack thereof) can impact the faith of others and the reputation of God Himself. When we face difficulties, our prayer should not only be for our own deliverance but also that our circumstances would not cause others to doubt God's goodness or power. This verse calls us to a higher form of spiritual maturity, where our ultimate concern is for God's glory and the steadfastness of His people. It encourages us to intercede for fellow believers, especially those who are struggling, asking God to uphold their faith and prevent them from being "ashamed" or "confounded" in their trust.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does my response to personal suffering potentially impact the faith of those around me?**
* **In what ways can I pray more selflessly, prioritizing God's glory and the well-being of the community of faith over my own immediate relief?**
* **What does it mean for me to "wait on" and "seek" the Lord actively in my current circumstances?**
* **How can I live in a way that ensures God's name is honored, even when I am experiencing personal trials or setbacks?**

### FAQ

**What does "for my sake" mean in this verse?**

Answer: In Psalms 69:6, "for my sake" (לְמַעֲנִי, _lema’ani_) means "because of me" or "on account of me." The Psalmist is expressing a deep concern that his personal suffering, humiliation, or apparent lack of divine intervention might lead others—specifically those who trust in and seek God—to be shamed or disillusioned. He fears that if God does not act on his behalf, it could be perceived as God's failure, thereby bringing disgrace upon God's name and causing His faithful followers to feel foolish for their trust. It highlights the Psalmist's understanding that his life and circumstances are a public testimony to God's character and faithfulness.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalm 69 is one of the most profoundly Christological psalms, with numerous verses quoted or alluded to in the New Testament as prophecies concerning Jesus' suffering. Verse 6, though not directly quoted, finds its ultimate fulfillment in Christ's passion and subsequent vindication. Jesus, the perfect "one who waited on" and "sought" the Father, endured immense shame and reproach, not "for His own sake" but for the sake of His people and the Father's glory. The New Testament repeatedly emphasizes that Christ's suffering was a stumbling block to many ([1 Corinthians 1:23](/1_corinthians/1-23 "1 Corinthians 1:23 - Christ Crucified, a Stumbling Block")), yet His ultimate resurrection and exaltation removed all shame from those who believe in Him ([Romans 10:11](/romans/10-11 "Romans 10:11 - No One Who Believes in Him Will Be Put to Shame")). By enduring the cross and despising its shame ([Hebrews 12:2](/hebrews/12-2 "Hebrews 12:2 - Jesus, Author and Perfecter of Our Faith")), Jesus ensured that those who put their faith in Him would never be put to shame ([1 Peter 2:6](/1_peter/2-6 "1 Peter 2:6 - Cornerstone, Those Who Believe Will Not Be Put to Shame")). His triumph over sin and death guarantees that the faith of His followers is not in vain, but is eternally vindicated through His perfect sacrifice and glorious resurrection, bringing ultimate honor to God the Father.

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

Psalms 7:7

So shall the congregation of the people compass thee about: for their sakes therefore return thou on high.

Psalms 25:3

Yea, let none that wait on thee be ashamed: let them be ashamed which transgress without cause.

2 Samuel 23:3

The God of Israel said, the Rock of Israel spake to me, He that ruleth over men [must be] just, ruling in the fear of God.

Isaiah 49:23

And kings shall be thy nursing fathers, and their queens thy nursing mothers: they shall bow down to thee with [their] face toward the earth, and lick up the dust of thy feet; and thou shalt know that I [am] the LORD: for they shall not be ashamed that wait for me.

Psalms 72:18

¶ Blessed [be] the LORD God, the God of Israel, who only doeth wondrous things.

Psalms 35:26

Let them be ashamed and brought to confusion together that rejoice at mine hurt: let them be clothed with shame and dishonour that magnify [themselves] against me.

Acts 4:7

And when they had set them in the midst, they asked, By what power, or by what name, have ye done this?