Because they regard not the works of the LORD, nor the operation of his hands, he shall destroy them, and not build them up.

PSALMS 28:5KJV
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Psalms 28:5 (KJV)

What does Psalms 28:5 mean?

Psalms 28:5 says that because certain people ignore what the LORD has done and do not pay attention to his actions, God will bring them down and will not help them recover. The verse warns that turning a blind eye to God's work leads to destruction instead of restoration.

David is speaking in this psalm, praying to God about those who oppose him and do evil. He points out that these people fail to recognize or respect the works and deeds of the LORD, which is a serious offense in the context of ancient Israel, where God's actions in history were central to faith. The verse highlights a cause-and-effect relationship: ignoring God's involvement leads to being abandoned by him.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 28:5

  • "regard" (בִּין, bin): This word means to pay attention, understand, or consider. The verse emphasizes that the people are not just ignorant, but are willfully ignoring or failing to reflect on God's works.
  • "works" (פֹּעַל, po'al): This refers to the deeds or actions of the LORD. In the psalms, God's "works" often point to his acts of creation, deliverance, and judgment.
  • "operation" (מַעֲשֶׂה, ma'aseh): This word is closely related to "works," but often highlights the process or craftsmanship involved. Here, it deepens the sense that God's ongoing involvement is being ignored.
  • "destroy" (הָרַס, haras): This word means to tear down or demolish. The verse uses strong language to show that God's response to being disregarded is not just passive, but active removal or destruction.

Why Psalms 28:5 matters

  • Psalms 28:5 clarifies that ignoring God's actions is not a small mistake but a serious spiritual problem with real consequences.
  • The verse connects to the larger theme of the psalm, where David contrasts the fate of the wicked with those who trust in God.
  • It helps explain why remembering and recognizing God's works is so important in the Bible, especially in the psalms, where reflection on God's deeds is a foundation for faith.

Where else these words appear

“works” Hebrew H6468 · used in 14 verses

  • Leviticus 19:13 Thou shalt not defraud thy neighbour, neither rob him: the wages of him that is hired shall not abide with thee all night until the morning.
  • Proverbs 10:16 The labour of the righteous tendeth to life: the fruit of the wicked to sin.
  • Isaiah 61:8 For I the LORD love judgment, I hate robbery for burnt offering; and I will direct their work in truth, and I will make an everlasting covenant with them.

“destroy” Hebrew H2040 · used in 42 verses

  • Exodus 15:7 And in the greatness of thine excellency thou hast overthrown them that rose up against thee: thou sentest forth thy wrath, which consumed them as stubble.
  • Psalms 58:6 Break their teeth, O God, in their mouth: break out the great teeth of the young lions, O LORD.
  • Jeremiah 50:15 Shout against her round about: she hath given her hand: her foundations are fallen, her walls are thrown down: for it is the vengeance of the LORD: take vengeance upon her; as she hath done, do unto her.