Psalms 138:3 (KJV)

What does Psalms 138:3 mean?

Psalms 138:3 describes how, on the very day the writer called out to God, God responded and gave the writer new strength deep within. The verse highlights a personal moment when prayer was met with a real sense of inner support and encouragement from God.

In this psalm, David is speaking directly to God, recalling a specific time when he was in need and cried out. The verse shows David’s confidence that God not only hears but actively answers, giving him the strength he needed in his soul. This moment is set in the context of David’s gratitude for God’s faithfulness and help.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 138:3

• "cried" (קָרָא, qara): This word means to call out or cry for help, often in a time of need. It shows that David’s prayer was earnest and urgent.
• "strengthenedst" (תְּאַמְּצֵנִי, te’ammetseni): This comes from a word meaning to make strong or courageous. Here, it emphasizes that God didn’t just answer, but gave David a renewed sense of courage or resolve.
• "strength" (עֹז, oz): This word refers to might or power, especially inner strength. The focus is on being strengthened within, not just outward help.
• "soul" (נֶפֶשׁ, nefesh): This word often means the inner self or life. The verse points to God giving strength at the deepest level of David’s being.

Why Psalms 138:3 matters

• Psalms 138:3 clarifies that God’s help is not always about changing outside circumstances, but can be about giving strength and courage inside.
• The verse emphasizes the immediacy of God’s response—David says God answered “in the day” he cried, showing God’s attentiveness.
• This verse connects to the wider psalm, where David is expressing thanks for God’s steadfast love and faithfulness, grounding his praise in real, personal experience.