Psalms 94:14

KJV

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

KJV (with Strong's)

For the LORD {H3068} will not cast off {H5203}{H8799)} his people {H5971}, neither will he forsake {H5800}{H8799)} his inheritance {H5159}.

Complete Jewish Bible

For ADONAI will not desert his people, he will not abandon his heritage.

Berean Standard Bible

For the LORD will not forsake His people; He will never abandon His heritage.

American Standard Version

For Jehovah will not cast off his people, Neither will he forsake his inheritance.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 94:14 serves as a profound declaration of Yahweh's unwavering faithfulness and enduring commitment to His covenant people. Situated amidst the psalmist's fervent plea for divine justice against the wicked and oppressors, this verse functions as a pivotal anchor of hope, assuring believers that the sovereign Lord will never abandon or disinherit those whom He has chosen and called His own. It powerfully underscores God's immutable character as a faithful protector and preserver, providing deep comfort and stability even when circumstances suggest otherwise.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalm 94 is primarily a communal lament, a passionate and urgent cry for divine intervention and judgment against the wicked who oppress the righteous within Israel. The psalm opens with an impassioned appeal to God as the "God of vengeance" [Psalm 94:1](/psalms/94-1 "Psalm 94:1 - God of Vengeance"), vividly describing the arrogance and injustice of the evildoers who "crush your people, O LORD, and afflict your heritage" [Psalm 94:5](/psalms/94-5 "Psalm 94:5 - Oppression of God's People"). The psalmist challenges God's apparent silence and calls upon the oppressors to acknowledge God's omniscience and omnipotence, declaring, "He who planted the ear, does he not hear? He who formed the eye, does he not see?" [Psalm 94:9](/psalms/94-9 "Psalm 94:9 - God's Omniscience"). Within this intense context of suffering, petition, and theological wrestling, [Psalm 94:12-15](/psalms/94-12-15 "Psalm 94:12-15 - The Blessedness of Discipline and God's Faithfulness") marks a significant theological turning point. Verse 14, in particular, acts as a foundational theological statement that undergirds the psalmist's renewed confidence in God's ultimate justice and deliverance. It transitions from the description of present distress to a declaration of God's immutable character, providing the bedrock for the psalmist's trust and hope, culminating in the assurance that "judgment will again be righteous" [Psalm 94:15](/psalms/94-15 "Psalm 94:15 - Righteous Judgment Restored").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** While the specific historical setting of Psalm 94 is not explicitly stated, its themes resonate deeply with periods of oppression and injustice experienced by ancient Israel. Such periods could include foreign domination, internal corruption, or times when the leadership (judges, kings, priests) failed to uphold justice, leading to the exploitation of the vulnerable, such as widows, sojourners, and orphans. In the ancient Near East, the concept of a deity's relationship with a particular people was often intrinsically tied to national identity, protection, and prosperity. For Israel, this relationship was uniquely defined by the **covenant** established at Sinai, where Yahweh chose Israel as His "treasured possession among all peoples" [Exodus 19:5](/exodus/19-5 "Exodus 19:5 - Israel, God's Treasured Possession") and promised to be their God, and they His people. The terms "his people" and "his inheritance" in verse 14 invoke this profound covenantal bond, emphasizing God's proprietary and protective interest in Israel. The expectation was that God, as the supreme King and Judge, would uphold justice within His dominion and for His chosen nation, especially when human authorities failed to do so.
* **Key Themes:** Psalms 94:14 powerfully articulates several core theological themes central to biblical revelation. First, it highlights **God's Unwavering Faithfulness (Hesed)**, asserting that His commitment to His covenant promises is steadfast and immutable. He is not capricious or prone to abandoning His chosen, reinforcing His reliable and trustworthy nature, a theme echoed in [Deuteronomy 7:9](/deuteronomy/7-9 "Deuteronomy 7:9 - God's Faithfulness"). Second, it underscores the profound **Covenant Relationship and Divine Election** between God and Israel. The phrases "his people" and "his inheritance" are not merely descriptive but speak to a unique, intimate, and exclusive bond, emphasizing Israel's status as God's specially chosen nation, set apart by divine grace. This election implies God's deep proprietary interest in their well-being and destiny, as seen in [Deuteronomy 32:9](/deuteronomy/32-9 "Deuteronomy 32:9 - Israel, the Lord's Portion"). Third, the verse offers a powerful message of **Divine Preservation and Security**. Despite the apparent triumph of evil or the severe trials faced by the righteous, God's commitment ensures that His people will ultimately be preserved, sustained, and not utterly destroyed or forgotten. This provides immense comfort and a foundation for enduring hope, even when justice seems delayed or suffering is prolonged, a truth that resonates with the promise in [Isaiah 41:10](/isaiah/41-10 "Isaiah 41:10 - Do Not Fear, For I Am With You").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Cast off (Hebrew, נָטַשׁ, _nâṭash_):** This verb signifies to abandon, desert, release, or let go. It often implies a complete relinquishing of responsibility, care, or a relationship. Used in the negative ("will not cast off"), it emphasizes God's active and continuous holding onto His people, refusing to sever the bond or cease His protective oversight, regardless of their circumstances or even their failures. It speaks to an unbreakable divine grip, a refusal to disown.
* **Forsake (Hebrew, עָזַב, _ʻâzab_):** Similar to _nâṭash_, this word means to leave, abandon, or desert. It can refer to leaving a place, a person, or a responsibility. Its parallel use with _nâṭash_ in this verse creates a powerful **synonymous parallelism**, intensifying the declaration of God's enduring presence and commitment. It assures that God will not withdraw His presence, support, or loyalty from His people, affirming His steadfast companionship.
* **Inheritance (Hebrew, נַחֲלָה, _nachălâh_):** While _nachălâh_ often refers to a physical inheritance, particularly the land of Canaan given to Israel (e.g., [Joshua 13:6](/joshua/13-6 "The Inheritance of the Tribes")), here it metaphorically refers to the people themselves as God's treasured possession. This term underscores their immense value and significance in His eyes, akin to a precious family heirloom or a cherished possession that one would never willingly give up. It highlights God's vested interest in His people, not merely as their owner, but as one who cherishes, protects, and is deeply invested in His own.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For the LORD will not cast off his people":** This initial clause establishes the bedrock of God's character and covenant faithfulness. The "LORD" (Yahweh, H3068) refers to the personal, covenant-making God of Israel, whose very name signifies His eternal, self-existent nature and His commitment to His promises. The negative "will not cast off" (H5203) directly refutes any notion that God might abandon or disown those He has chosen. "His people" (H5971, _ʻam_) specifically designates Israel, emphasizing their unique relationship as a nation set apart by divine election. This part of the verse provides a foundational assurance that God's commitment to His chosen nation is irrevocable and enduring, even in the face of their struggles or the apparent triumph of their enemies.
* **"neither will he forsake his inheritance":** This second clause reinforces and amplifies the first through **synonymous parallelism**. "Forsake" (H5800, _ʻâzab_) reiterates the concept of abandonment, while "his inheritance" (H5159, _nachălâh_) further clarifies and deepens the nature of God's relationship with Israel. As God's "inheritance," Israel is not merely a people He governs, but a cherished possession He values, delights in, and protects. This imagery speaks to a profound, intimate, and proprietary bond, assuring that God will never relinquish His claim or cease His devoted care for them. The double negative ("will not cast off," "neither will he forsake") creates a powerful, emphatic affirmation of God's absolute and unwavering fidelity.

#### Literary Devices
The profound truth of Psalms 94:14 is conveyed through several impactful literary devices that enhance its message and emotional resonance. The most prominent is **Synonymous Parallelism**, where the second clause ("neither will he forsake his inheritance") reiterates and intensifies the meaning of the first ("For the LORD will not cast off his people"). This repetition serves to emphasize the absolute certainty and immutability of God's commitment, reinforcing the divine promise with rhetorical force. The use of **Anthropomorphism** is also evident, as God is described with human actions like "casting off" or "forsaking," which helps the human reader grasp His relational posture and the depth of His engagement. However, the negative formulation ("will not") clarifies that God's actions are contrary to human failings of abandonment. Furthermore, the term "inheritance" functions as a powerful **Metaphor**, transforming the abstract idea of a chosen people into a tangible, valuable possession, underscoring God's deep affection, proprietary interest, and vested care in Israel. The combined effect of these devices is to create a declaration of divine faithfulness that is both rhetorically strong and deeply comforting, solidifying the psalmist's and the reader's trust in God.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 94:14 articulates a fundamental truth about God's nature: His unwavering faithfulness (Hebrew, _hesed_). This verse is a powerful testament to God's immutability and the enduring nature of His covenant promises. It assures us that God's commitment to His chosen people is not conditional on their perfection or performance, but rooted in His own unchanging character and sovereign will. This divine fidelity provides the ultimate security for believers, reminding us that our standing with God is not dependent on our fluctuating obedience, but on His unchanging love and commitment. This truth is foundational to understanding the covenant relationship throughout Scripture, from the Old Testament promises to Israel to the New Testament's new covenant in Christ, where God's people are assured of His eternal presence and preservation, even through trials and tribulations.

* [Deuteronomy 31:6](/deuteronomy/31-6 "God Will Not Fail or Forsake You")
* [1 Samuel 12:22](/1_samuel/12-22 "The Lord Will Not Forsake His People")
* [Hebrews 13:5](/hebrews/13-5 "I Will Never Leave You Nor Forsake You")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
In a world characterized by instability, broken promises, and fleeting loyalties, Psalms 94:14 offers an unshakeable anchor for the soul. It reminds us that our God is utterly dependable, a steadfast rock in times of storm and uncertainty. When we face personal trials, societal injustice, or spiritual doubts that tempt us to question God's presence or care, this verse calls us back to the foundational truth of His immutable faithfulness. It assures us that as His people, His spiritual inheritance through Christ, we are never abandoned, forgotten, or cast aside. This truth should cultivate a deep sense of security, peace, and resilience within us, empowering us to persevere through adversity, knowing that God is actively working for our ultimate good and His glory. It transforms our perspective on suffering, from a sign of abandonment to an opportunity to experience God's sustaining grace and unwavering presence.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the truth that God "will not cast off his people" impact your sense of security and identity in Christ, especially during challenging times?**
* **In what specific areas of your life are you tempted to believe that God has abandoned or forgotten you? How can the assurance of this verse speak directly to those doubts and fears?**
* **How does God's unwavering faithfulness, as declared in this psalm, empower your prayers for justice and deliverance in a world that often seems overwhelmed by injustice?**
* **What practical steps can you take to live in greater confidence and peace, knowing that you are God's cherished "inheritance" through faith in Jesus Christ?**

### FAQ

**Does this promise apply only to ancient Israel, or to believers today?**

Answer: While the immediate context of Psalms 94:14 refers to ancient Israel as God's "people" and "inheritance" under the Old Covenant, the theological principle of God's unwavering faithfulness is eternal and extends to all who are His people through the New Covenant in Christ. The New Testament explicitly applies Old Testament promises of God's unfailing presence to believers (e.g., [Hebrews 13:5](/hebrews/13-5 "God Will Never Leave or Forsake You"), which quotes [Deuteronomy 31:6](/deuteronomy/31-6 "God Will Not Fail or Forsake You")). Through faith in Jesus, Gentiles are "grafted in" [Romans 11:17](/romans/11-17 "Gentiles Grafted In") to the spiritual root of Israel and become part of God's spiritual Israel, His chosen people, and His treasured possession [1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "A Chosen People"). Therefore, the assurance that God will not cast off or forsake His people applies with full force and even greater depth to all who are in Christ, forming the bedrock of Christian security.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 94:14 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The Old Testament concept of God's "people" and "inheritance" finds its spiritual culmination in the Church, the body of Christ, composed of all who are redeemed by His precious blood. Through Christ, believers are not merely adopted into God's family but are declared His "inheritance" [Ephesians 1:11](/ephesians/1-11 "The Inheritance of Believers") and "a people for his own possession" [1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "A Chosen People"), purchased at an infinite cost. Jesus Himself is the ultimate guarantee of God's unfailing commitment; He promised His disciples, "I am with you always, to the end of the age" [Matthew 28:20](/matthew/28-20 "Matthew 28:20 - The Great Commission"), and the writer of Hebrews affirms, "I will never leave you nor forsake you" [Hebrews 13:5](/hebrews/13-5 "I Will Never Leave You Nor Forsake You"), echoing the very words of the Old Testament. His sacrificial death and glorious resurrection established the New Covenant, a covenant sealed by His blood, ensuring that God's faithfulness to His people is eternally secured. The power of sin and death, which once threatened to separate humanity from God, has been decisively overcome by Christ, making God's triumphant declaration in [Romans 8:38-39](/romans/8-38-39 "God's Unfailing Love") a living reality for all who believe: "neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." Thus, in Christ, God's promise to never cast off or forsake His inheritance is perfectly and eternally fulfilled, providing an unshakeable foundation for our hope.

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

1 Samuel 12:22

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.

Psalms 37:28

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.

Romans 11:1

¶ I say then, Hath God cast away his people? God forbid. For I also am an Israelite, of the seed of Abraham, [of] the tribe of Benjamin.

Romans 11:2

God hath not cast away his people which he foreknew. Wot ye not what the scripture saith of Elias? how he maketh intercession to God against Israel, saying,

Deuteronomy 32:9

For the LORD'S portion [is] his people; Jacob [is] the lot of his inheritance.

John 10:27

My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:

John 10:31

Then the Jews took up stones again to stone him.