They shall not be ashamed in the evil time: and in the days of famine they shall be satisfied.

PSALMS 37:19KJV
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Psalms 37:19 (KJV)

What does Psalms 37:19 mean?

Psalms 37:19 says that those who trust in God will not be put to shame or let down during difficult or evil times, and even when there is a famine, they will have what they need. The verse promises security and provision for the faithful, even when circumstances around them are harsh or uncertain.

This verse is part of a psalm written by David, speaking to people who are worried about the success of the wicked and the troubles of the righteous. David reassures his listeners that God cares for those who follow Him, especially when times are bad. The verse uses strong contrasts—evil times and famine versus being satisfied—to highlight the difference between those who rely on God and those who do not.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 37:19

  • "ashamed" (בּוּשׁ, bosh): This word often means to be disappointed or let down, not just embarrassed. Here, it suggests that the faithful will not be left without help or hope when things get tough.
  • "evil" (רַע, ra‘): This word means more than just moral evil; it can also refer to times of trouble, disaster, or hardship. The verse is talking about any kind of difficult period, not just times of wickedness.
  • "famine" (רָעָב, ra‘av): This word means a literal lack of food, but it can also stand for any time of severe need. The verse promises that God’s people will be taken care of even when basic necessities are scarce.
  • "satisfied" (שָׂבַע, sava‘): This word means to be filled or to have enough. It emphasizes not just survival, but a sense of contentment and sufficiency.

Why Psalms 37:19 matters

  • This verse clarifies that God’s care for His people is not just spiritual but can include practical needs, even in the worst circumstances.
  • Psalms 37:19 reassures readers who might feel anxious about the future or about times of crisis, showing that trust in God is not misplaced.
  • In the context of Psalms 37, this verse is part of a larger encouragement not to envy those who do wrong, but to remain faithful and trust in God’s justice and provision.

Where else these words appear

“famine” Hebrew H7459 · used in 3 verses

  • Genesis 42:19 If ye be true men, let one of your brethren be bound in the house of your prison: go ye, carry corn for the famine of your houses:
  • Genesis 42:33 And the man, the lord of the country, said unto us, Hereby shall I know that ye are true men; leave one of your brethren here with me, and take food for the famine of your households, and be gone:

“satisfied” Hebrew H7646 · used in 92 verses

  • Exodus 16:8 And Moses said, This shall be, when the LORD shall give you in the evening flesh to eat, and in the morning bread to the full; for that the LORD heareth your murmurings which ye murmur against him: and what are we? your murmurings are not against us, but against the LORD.
  • Psalms 90:14 O satisfy us early with thy mercy; that we may rejoice and be glad all our days.
  • Ecclesiastes 5:10 He that loveth silver shall not be satisfied with silver; nor he that loveth abundance with increase: this is also vanity.

“ashamed” Hebrew H954 · used in 100 verses

  • Genesis 2:25 And they were both naked, the man and his wife, and were not ashamed.
  • Psalms 119:6 Then shall I not be ashamed, when I have respect unto all thy commandments.
  • Isaiah 66:5 Hear the word of the LORD, ye that tremble at his word; Your brethren that hated you, that cast you out for my name's sake, said, Let the LORD be glorified: but he shall appear to your joy, and they shall be ashamed.