The secret of the LORD is with them that fear him; and he will shew them his covenant.

PSALMS 25:14KJV
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What does Psalms 25:14 mean?

Psalms 25:14 says that the LORD shares his secret or intimate counsel with those who fear him, and he makes his covenant known to them. This verse highlights a special closeness and trust between God and people who deeply respect and honor him.

In this psalm, David is speaking to God, expressing his trust and seeking guidance. The verse shows that a respectful, reverent attitude toward God ("fear him") leads to a deeper understanding of God's ways and promises. The idea is not just about knowing facts, but about being included in God’s inner circle—receiving insight and assurance about his covenant relationship.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 25:14

  • The word "secret" is סוֹד (sod, H5475), which often means confidential talk, counsel, or close friendship. Here, it suggests that God shares his deepest intentions with those who honor him.
  • "Fear" is יָרֵא (yare', H3373), meaning awe-filled respect or reverence, not just being afraid. The verse points to a relationship built on trust and respect, not terror.
  • "Shew" is יָדַע (yada‘, H3045), meaning to make known or reveal. God actively reveals his covenant, not just leaving people to figure it out.
  • "Covenant" is בְּרִית (berith, H1285), referring to God’s formal promise or agreement, especially the special relationship he makes with his people.

Why Psalms 25:14 matters

  • This verse clears up the idea that God’s ways are only for a select few; instead, it shows that anyone who truly respects God is welcomed into deeper understanding.
  • It emphasizes that the relationship with God is not distant or cold, but marked by trust, intimacy, and shared confidence.
  • Psalms 25 as a whole is about seeking guidance and forgiveness; verse 14 highlights that God’s guidance is personal and relational, not just a set of rules.

Where else these words appear

“secret” Hebrew H5475 · used in 21 verses

  • Genesis 49:6 O my soul, come not thou into their secret; unto their assembly, mine honour, be not thou united: for in their anger they slew a man, and in their selfwill they digged down a wall.
  • Psalms 83:3 They have taken crafty counsel against thy people, and consulted against thy hidden ones.
  • Proverbs 25:9 Debate thy cause with thy neighbour himself; and discover not a secret to another:

“fear” Hebrew H3373 · used in 63 verses

  • Genesis 22:12 And he said, Lay not thine hand upon the lad, neither do thou any thing unto him: for now I know that thou fearest God, seeing thou hast not withheld thy son, thine only son from me.
  • Psalms 15:4 In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honoureth them that fear the LORD. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not.
  • Psalms 128:1 A Song of degrees. Blessed is every one that feareth the LORD; that walketh in his ways.