Psalms 139:24
What does Psalms 139:24 mean?
A plain-English look at Psalms 139:24 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Psalms 139:24 means
Building on his prayer for divine scrutiny, David then asks God to "see if there be any wicked way in me, And lead me in the way everlasting." This final plea reveals his ultimate desire: to live a life pleasing to God. He understands that God's searching is not merely observational but redemptive, leading to correction and guidance. "The way everlasting" refers to a path of righteousness that endures eternally, a life lived in accordance with God's will and leading to eternal life. This demonstrates a deep longing for moral purity and eternal communion with God.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000And see if there be any wicked way in me, And lead me in the way everlasting.
KJV
King James Version · 1611And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901And see if there be any wicked way in me, And lead me in the way everlasting.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949See if there is any way of sorrow in me, and be my guide in the eternal way.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862And see if a grievous way be in me, And lead me in a way age-during!
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752Not available in this translation
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890And see if there be any grievous way in me; and lead me in the way everlasting.
Context
Following his plea for divine examination of his heart and thoughts in verse 23, this verse articulates the ultimate purpose of such a search: the removal of any wicked ways and guidance into a path of eternal righteousness. This serves as the culminating prayer of the entire psalm, bringing together the themes of God's complete knowledge, His sovereign guidance, and David's desire for a life fully consecrated to Him. It provides a hopeful and devotional ending to his profound meditation.
v.23Search me, O God, and know my heart: Try me, and know my thoughts;
v.24This passage
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- John 14:6
Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, and the truth, and the life: no one cometh unto the Father, but by me.
- Proverbs 15:9
The way of the wicked is an abomination to Jehovah; But he loveth him that followeth after righteousness.
- Psalms 5:8
Lead me, O Jehovah, in thy righteousness because of mine enemies; Make thy way straight before my face.
- Jeremiah 17:9
The heart is deceitful above all things, and it is exceedingly corrupt: who can know it?
- Colossians 2:6
As therefore ye received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him,
- Matthew 7:14
For narrow is the gate, and straitened the way, that leadeth unto life, and few are they that find it.
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