Psalms 90:16 (KJV)

What does Psalms 90:16 mean?

Psalms 90:16 is a prayer asking God to show His powerful deeds to His servants and to reveal His glory to their children. The verse expresses a desire for God’s presence and greatness to be made clear not just to the current generation, but also to those who come after.

Moses is traditionally understood as the speaker in Psalms 90, addressing God on behalf of the people of Israel. The verse comes in a psalm that reflects on the brevity of human life and the greatness of God. Here, the request is for God’s work—His mighty acts—to be visible to those who serve Him, and for His splendor to be seen by their descendants, highlighting a longing for God’s ongoing involvement with His people across generations.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 90:16

• work (פֹּעַל, po‘al): This word refers to a deed or action, especially something accomplished by God. In this verse, it points to God’s mighty acts in history, which the people long to witness again.
• appear (רָאָה, ra’ah): This verb means “to see” or “to be visible.” The request is not just for God to act, but for His actions to be clearly seen and recognized by His people.
• servants (עֶבֶד, ‘eved): This term often describes those who are devoted to God. Here, it emphasizes the humble position of the people before God, asking Him to reveal Himself to those who serve Him.
• glory (הָדָר, hadar): This word carries the sense of majesty, splendor, or honor. The prayer is for God’s impressive presence and greatness to be revealed to the next generation.
• children (בֵּן, ben): This simply means “sons” or “children,” highlighting the desire for God’s glory to be known not just now, but by future generations as well.

Why Psalms 90:16 matters

• Psalms 90:16 clarifies that the people are not only asking for God’s help in their own time, but also for a lasting legacy of God’s presence that will impact their descendants.
• The verse connects to the broader theme of the psalm, which contrasts human frailty with God’s enduring power, and expresses a hope that God’s greatness will be experienced anew.
• By focusing on both “servants” and “children,” the verse emphasizes a multi-generational faith, showing concern for the spiritual well-being of future generations, not just the present.