Psalm 33:19

to deliver them from death and keep them alive in famine.

Study Bible

to deliver them
The phrase "to deliver them" in Hebrew is "לְהַצִּילָם" (le-hatzilam), which conveys the idea of rescue or salvation. In the context of the Old Testament, deliverance often refers to God's intervention in times of trouble or danger. This deliverance is not just a physical rescue but also a spiritual salvation, reflecting God's covenant faithfulness to His people. Historically, Israel experienced numerous instances of divine deliverance, such as the Exodus from Egypt, which serves as a foundational narrative of God's saving power. This phrase reassures believers of God's active role in their lives, emphasizing His ability to save them from peril.

from death
The Hebrew word for "death" is "מָוֶת" (mavet), which can refer to both physical death and spiritual separation from God. In the biblical context, death is often seen as the ultimate enemy, a consequence of sin that entered the world through Adam and Eve. However, the promise of deliverance from death points to God's power over life and death, foreshadowing the ultimate victory over death through Jesus Christ. This assurance of deliverance from death provides hope and comfort, reminding believers of the eternal life promised through faith in Christ.

and keep them alive
The phrase "and keep them alive" in Hebrew is "וּלְחַיּוֹתָם" (u-lechayyotam), which emphasizes God's sustaining power. This is not merely about survival but about thriving under God's care. Throughout Scripture, God is depicted as the sustainer of life, providing for His creation and ensuring the well-being of His people. This phrase highlights God's ongoing provision and protection, assuring believers that He is attentive to their needs and actively involved in their lives.

in famine
The word "famine" in Hebrew is "בָּרָעָב" (bara'av), which refers to a severe shortage of food, often seen as a time of testing and dependence on God. Famines were common in the ancient Near East and are frequently mentioned in the Bible as periods when God's people had to rely on His provision. For instance, the account of Joseph in Egypt illustrates how God used a famine to fulfill His purposes and provide for His people. This phrase underscores God's ability to sustain His people even in the most challenging circumstances, encouraging believers to trust in His provision and faithfulness during times of scarcity or hardship.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Righteous
The verse speaks about those who fear the Lord and hope in His unfailing love. These are the people whom God promises to deliver and sustain.

2. God
The central figure in this verse, God is portrayed as the deliverer and sustainer, emphasizing His power and faithfulness.

3. Death
Represents the ultimate peril from which God delivers His people, symbolizing both physical and spiritual threats.

4. Famine
A situation of extreme scarcity, used here to illustrate God's provision and care even in the most desperate circumstances.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Protection
Trust in God's ability to deliver from both physical and spiritual death. His sovereignty assures us that He is in control, even in dire circumstances.

Faith in God's Provision
In times of scarcity or need, remember that God is our provider. Just as He promises to keep us alive in famine, He will meet our needs according to His riches in glory.

Hope in God's Unfailing Love
Our hope should be anchored in God's steadfast love. This hope is not wishful thinking but a confident expectation based on His character and promises.

The Importance of Fear and Reverence for God
Cultivate a healthy fear of the Lord, which is the beginning of wisdom and a key to experiencing His deliverance and provision.

Spiritual Deliverance and Eternal Life
Reflect on the ultimate deliverance from spiritual death through Jesus Christ, who offers eternal life to those who believe.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God's sovereignty help you trust Him in times of crisis or danger?

2. In what ways can you cultivate a deeper reverence and fear of the Lord in your daily life?

3. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's provision in a "famine" situation. How did that impact your faith?

4. How can the assurance of God's unfailing love and protection influence your response to current challenges?

5. What steps can you take to ensure that your hope is firmly anchored in God's promises rather than in worldly securities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 34:7
This verse speaks of the angel of the Lord encamping around those who fear Him, delivering them from danger, which parallels the deliverance mentioned in Psalm 33:19.

Matthew 6:31-33
Jesus teaches about God's provision, encouraging believers not to worry about their needs, as God knows and provides for them, similar to the promise of sustenance in famine.

Romans 8:38-39
Paul assures that nothing can separate us from the love of God, echoing the theme of divine protection and deliverance from death.