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 · 2000

Jehovah knoweth the days of the perfect; And their inheritance shall be for ever.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

The Lord knoweth the days of the upright: and their inheritance shall be for ever.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

Jehovah knoweth the days of the perfect; And their inheritance shall be for ever.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

The days of the upright are numbered by the Lord, and their heritage will be for ever.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

Jehovah knoweth the days of the perfect, And their inheritance is--to the age.

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

For I am ready for scourges: and my sorrow is continually before me.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

Jehovah 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.

v.17For the arms of the wicked shall be broken; But Jehovah upholdeth the righteous.

v.18This passage

v.19They shall not be put to shame in the time of evil; And in the days of famine they shall be satisfied.

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.

Related questions readers ask

Keep exploring

Follow this verse across Scripture

Topics, devotionals, original-language word studies, and figures connected to Psalms 37:18.