Psalms 37:18
What does Psalms 37:18 mean?
A plain-English look at Psalms 37:18 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Psalms 37:18 means
This verse offers a deep assurance of God's intimate knowledge and perpetual care for the righteous, referred to as "the perfect." God is not distant but is actively aware of their entire earthly journey and their future. "Jehovah knoweth the days of the perfect" implies not just casual observation but a providential oversight of their lives, including their trials and triumphs. Consequently, their "inheritance shall be for ever." This contrasts sharply with the fleeting prosperity of the wicked, affirming that the blessings and eternal security God grants to the righteous are permanent and will never diminish or be taken away. This points to a heavenly, enduring reward.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000Jehovah knoweth the days of the perfect; And their inheritance shall be for ever.
KJV
King James Version · 1611The Lord knoweth the days of the upright: and their inheritance shall be for ever.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901Jehovah knoweth the days of the perfect; And their inheritance shall be for ever.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949The days of the upright are numbered by the Lord, and their heritage will be for ever.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862Jehovah knoweth the days of the perfect, And their inheritance is--to the age.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752For I am ready for scourges: and my sorrow is continually before me.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890Jehovah knoweth the days of the perfect; and their inheritance shall be for ever:
Context
Building on the promise of God upholding the righteous in verse 17, this verse deepens that assurance by highlighting God's intimate knowledge and eternal provision. It assures believers that their entire life journey is known to Him and that their ultimate inheritance is secure and everlasting. This promise of enduring inheritance paves the way for specific reassurances regarding sustenance and protection during times of adversity in the subsequent verses.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Psalms 49:5
Wherefore should I fear in the days of evil, When iniquity at my heels compasseth me about?
- 1 Peter 1:4
unto an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you,
- Psalms 21:4
He asked life of thee, thou gavest it him, Even length of days for ever and ever.
- Revelation 11:3
And I will give unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and threescore days, clothed in sackcloth.
- 2 Timothy 2:19
Howbeit the firm foundation of God standeth, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his: and, Let every one that nameth the name of the Lord depart from unrighteousness.
- Psalms 16:11
Thou wilt show me the path of life: In thy presence is fulness of joy; In thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.
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