Psalms 119:116 (KJV)

What does Psalms 119:116 mean?

Psalms 119:116 is a prayer asking God to support the speaker according to God’s promise, so that the speaker can continue to live, and not be disappointed or put to shame because of the hope placed in God. The verse shows a deep trust that God’s word is reliable and that hope in God will not lead to embarrassment or failure.

The writer is traditionally understood to be the psalmist, speaking directly to God in a time of need. The verse fits into a larger section where the psalmist expresses dependence on God’s guidance and faithfulness, especially when facing challenges. The focus is on God’s word as a source of life and hope, and the desire not to be let down after placing trust in God’s promises.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 119:116

• "Uphold" (סָמַךְ, samakh): This word often means to support or sustain, like holding someone up so they do not fall. In this verse, it highlights the psalmist’s sense of needing God’s steady help to keep going.
• "Word" (אִמְרָה, imrah): This term refers to what God has spoken or promised. The psalmist is not asking for help based on personal merit, but specifically according to what God has already said.
• "Live" (חָיָה, chayah): This word means to live or stay alive, but can also suggest flourishing or being revived. The psalmist connects ongoing life and well-being directly to God’s support.
• "Ashamed" (בּוּשׁ, bosh): This word means to be put to shame or disappointed, especially when hope or trust is not fulfilled. The psalmist’s fear is not just embarrassment, but the deeper letdown that comes if God’s promises do not come true.
• "Hope" (שֶׁבֶר, shever): Here, it refers to confident expectation or trust. The psalmist’s hope is not vague wishing, but a settled confidence in God’s word.

Why Psalms 119:116 matters

• Psalms 119:116 clarifies that the psalmist’s hope is grounded in God’s promises, not in personal effort or circumstances.
• The verse highlights the emotional risk of faith—trusting in God’s word means being vulnerable to disappointment if God does not come through, which makes the prayer especially honest.
• This verse connects to the larger theme of Psalm 119, where the writer repeatedly ties life, hope, and security to God’s word, showing that Scripture is not just law but a source of real help and comfort.