86:1 86:1

Psalms 86:2

86:3 86:3

Bible Versions

Preserve my soul; for I [am] holy: O thou my God, save thy servant that trusteth in thee.
Preserve {H8104}{H8798)} my soul {H5315}; for I am holy {H2623}: O thou my God {H430}, save {H3467}{H8685)} thy servant {H5650} that trusteth {H982}{H8802)} in thee.
Preserve my life, for I am faithful; save your servant, who puts his trust in you because you are my God.
Preserve my soul, for I am godly. You are my God; save Your servant who trusts in You.
Preserve my soul; for I am godly: O thou my God, save thy servant that trusteth in thee.

Commentary on Psalms 86:2 (KJV)

Psalm 86 is a deeply personal prayer of David, a "Prayer of David" as indicated in its superscription. In this verse, David appeals to God for preservation and salvation, grounding his plea in his relationship with the Almighty.

Context

This verse follows David's initial cry for God to hear and answer him in Psalm 86:1. He is in a state of distress, seeking divine intervention. The entire psalm is characterized by David's humble supplication, acknowledging God's greatness and his own dependence. It's a vivid example of a righteous individual seeking refuge and deliverance from the Lord in times of trouble, a common theme throughout the book of Psalms.

Key Themes

  • Divine Preservation and Salvation: David's primary request is for God to "Preserve my soul" and "save thy servant." This is a plea for God's protection over his very being and deliverance from whatever dangers or enemies he faces. It speaks to God's power to sustain life and rescue His people.
  • The Basis of Appeal – Relationship and Trust: David presents three reasons for God to act:
    • "for I [am] holy": This statement is not a boast of sinless perfection, but rather refers to David's status as one devoted to God, consecrated, or pious. The Hebrew word here is chasid (חָסִיד), meaning "godly," "pious," or "one who is faithful." It suggests a sincere walk with God and loyalty to His covenant. It's an appeal based on his genuine relationship and obedience to God, not self-righteousness.
    • "O thou my God": David emphasizes his personal relationship with the Lord, addressing Him as "my God," indicating intimacy and covenant faithfulness.
    • "thy servant": He humbly acknowledges his position as God's servant, one who belongs to Him and is dedicated to His will. This humility reinforces his dependence on God.
    • "that trusteth in thee": This is the cornerstone of his plea. David's profound faith and reliance on God's character and power are presented as a compelling reason for divine intervention. His trust is not misplaced, as God consistently proves Himself faithful to those who depend on Him, a truth echoed in Proverbs 3:5-6.

Linguistic Insights

The term "holy" in "for I [am] holy" comes from the Hebrew word chasid (חָסִיד). As mentioned, this term denotes someone who is pious, devout, or a faithful one. It describes a person who is the object of God's hesed (steadfast love or loving-kindness) and who, in turn, demonstrates loyalty and devotion to God. It highlights David's status as one dedicated to God's ways, aligning with the concept of God's people being set apart or sanctified (see 1 Peter 1:16).

Practical Application

Psalms 86:2 offers profound lessons for believers today. It encourages us to approach God in prayer with both humility and confidence, acknowledging our relationship with Him. Our pleas for help and preservation can be rooted in our genuine devotion and unwavering trust in His character, rather than any perceived personal merit. This verse reminds us that God hears and preserves those who are truly His servants, who walk in faithfulness, and who place their complete reliance upon Him. It calls us to cultivate a life of piety and trust, knowing that these are the foundations upon which we can confidently appeal to our God for salvation and protection.

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.

  • Psalms 4:3

    But know that the LORD hath set apart him that is godly for himself: the LORD will hear when I call unto him.

  • Psalms 25:2

    O my God, I trust in thee: let me not be ashamed, let not mine enemies triumph over me.

  • Psalms 18:19

    He brought me forth also into a large place; he delivered me, because he delighted in me.

  • Psalms 119:94

    ¶ I [am] thine, save me; for I have sought thy precepts.

  • Isaiah 26:3

    Thou wilt keep [him] in perfect peace, [whose] mind [is] stayed [on thee]: because he trusteth in thee.

  • Isaiah 26:4

    Trust ye in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH [is] everlasting strength:

  • Psalms 31:1

    ¶ To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David. In thee, O LORD, do I put my trust; let me never be ashamed: deliver me in thy righteousness.
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