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Psalms 22:4

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Our fathers trusted in thee: they trusted, and thou didst deliver them.

Our fathers {H1} trusted {H982} in thee: they trusted {H982}, and thou didst deliver {H6403} them.

In you our ancestors put their trust; they trusted, and you rescued them.

In You our fathers trusted; they trusted and You delivered them.

Our fathers trusted in thee: They trusted, and thou didst deliver them.

Commentary

Psalms 22:4 (KJV): Our fathers trusted in thee: they trusted, and thou didst deliver them.

Context

Psalm 22 is a profound lament, often seen as a messianic psalm foretelling the suffering of Christ (see Matthew 27:46). However, amidst the psalmist's deep anguish and feeling of abandonment, verse 4 shifts focus. It recalls the historical experience of Israel's ancestors, specifically their reliance on God during times of trouble. This serves as both a contrast to the psalmist's present distress and a foundation for hope, remembering God's consistent faithfulness throughout their history, particularly during events like the Exodus and wilderness wanderings.

Key Themes

  • Trust in God: The verse highlights the central role of trust (or faith) in the relationship between God and His people. The "fathers" placed their confidence entirely in Him.
  • Historical Faithfulness: It serves as a reminder of God's unwavering faithfulness across generations, demonstrating His consistent character and reliability.
  • Divine Deliverance: The direct consequence of their trust was God's active intervention and deliverance from their troubles.
  • Foundation for Hope: By remembering past acts of deliverance, the psalmist finds a basis for hoping that God will act again, even in the darkest present circumstances.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word translated "trusted" is batach (בָּֽטְחוּ), which means to confide, trust, be confident, or feel secure. It implies leaning upon someone or something with full assurance. The repetition emphasizes the depth and sincerity of their reliance. The word for "didst deliver" is palat (תְּפַלְּטֵֽמוֹ), meaning to escape, deliver, or rescue, often implying a narrow escape or being brought to safety from danger.

Related Scriptures

This verse echoes a recurring theme in the Old Testament: God's deliverance of those who trust Him. It brings to mind the Exodus from Egypt, where God rescued the Israelites from slavery. The principle of trusting God for salvation is fundamental throughout scripture, as seen in verses like Proverbs 3:5-6 which exhorts us to trust in the Lord with all our heart. The book of Hebrews also speaks of the faith of the elders, recounting many instances of God's deliverance based on their trust.

Practical Application

Psalm 22:4 encourages believers today by reminding us that the God who delivered our "fathers" (both the ancient Israelites and spiritual ancestors in the faith) is the same God we serve. His character does not change. When we face trials, we can look back at the testimonies of God's faithfulness in scripture and throughout Christian history, and find courage to place our trust in Him, confident that He is able and willing to deliver us according to His will and timing. It calls us to cultivate a present trust based on past faithfulness.

Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash (May 20, 2025) using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Exodus 14:31 (5 votes)

    And Israel saw that great work which the LORD did upon the Egyptians: and the people feared the LORD, and believed the LORD, and his servant Moses.

  • Exodus 14:13 (5 votes)

    And Moses said unto the people, Fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the LORD, which he will shew to you to day: for the Egyptians whom ye have seen to day, ye shall see them again no more for ever.

  • Exodus 14:14 (5 votes)

    The LORD shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace.

  • Genesis 32:28 (5 votes)

    And he said, Thy name shall be called no more Jacob, but Israel: for as a prince hast thou power with God and with men, and hast prevailed.

  • Hebrews 11:8 (5 votes)

    By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went.

  • Hebrews 11:32 (5 votes)

    ¶ And what shall I more say? for the time would fail me to tell of Gedeon, and [of] Barak, and [of] Samson, and [of] Jephthae; [of] David also, and Samuel, and [of] the prophets:

  • Psalms 44:1 (4 votes)

    ¶ To the chief Musician for the sons of Korah, Maschil. We have heard with our ears, O God, our fathers have told us, [what] work thou didst in their days, in the times of old.