You who fear the LORD
This phrase addresses those who have a reverent awe and respect for God, often referred to as the "fear of the LORD." This concept is foundational in the wisdom literature of the Bible, such as Proverbs 1:7, which states that the fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge. It implies a relationship of obedience and worship, recognizing God's holiness and authority. Historically, this fear was a defining characteristic of the Israelites, setting them apart from surrounding nations who worshiped multiple gods. The fear of the LORD is not about terror but about a deep respect and commitment to His commandments.

trust in the LORD!
Trusting in the LORD is a call to rely on God's faithfulness and sovereignty. This trust is a central theme throughout the Bible, exemplified by figures like Abraham, who trusted God's promises despite seemingly impossible circumstances (Genesis 15:6). In the context of Psalm 115, this trust contrasts with the futility of idol worship, as the preceding verses describe the lifelessness of idols. Trusting in the LORD involves a confident expectation that He will act according to His character and promises, as seen in passages like Proverbs 3:5-6, which encourages believers to trust in the LORD with all their heart.

He is their help and shield.
This phrase emphasizes God's role as both a helper and protector. The imagery of God as a shield is prevalent in the Psalms, symbolizing defense and safety (Psalm 3:3, Psalm 18:2). In ancient warfare, a shield was a crucial piece of armor, providing protection against enemy attacks. Similarly, God is portrayed as a reliable protector for those who trust in Him. The term "help" suggests active assistance and support, reflecting God's involvement in the lives of His people. This dual role of help and shield assures believers of God's comprehensive care, echoing the covenant relationship where God promises to be with His people and deliver them from harm.

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal existence and faithfulness to His promises.

2. Those who fear the LORD
Refers to individuals who have a reverent awe and respect for God, acknowledging His power and authority.

3. Help and Shield
Metaphors for God's protection and support, indicating His active role in the lives of those who trust Him.Reverence and Trust
To fear the LORD is to have a deep respect and awe for Him, which naturally leads to trusting Him. Our reverence for God should be the foundation of our faith and trust.

God as Protector
The imagery of God as a shield emphasizes His role as a protector. In times of trouble, believers can find comfort in knowing that God is actively guarding them.

Active Faith
Trusting in the LORD is not passive; it requires an active decision to rely on Him in every circumstance. This trust is demonstrated through prayer, obedience, and reliance on His promises.

Community of Believers
The call to trust in the LORD is directed to a community ("you who fear the LORD"), highlighting the importance of encouraging one another in faith and trust.

Assurance of Help
God's promise to be our help assures us that we are not alone in our struggles. This assurance should lead to peace and confidence in His provision.Top 10 Lessons from Psalm 115

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What does 'The joy of the Lord is your strength' mean?Verse 11. - Ye that fear the Lord, trust in the Lord. Professor Cheyne explains this of proselytes, the σεβόμενοι of the Acts; but surely the order followed is one of climax - first, ordinary Israelites; next, those officially holy, the priests; finally, those actually holy, the truly faithful Israelites. He is their Help and their Shield. It would have been better in every case to have kept the Hebrew order of the words - "Their Help and their Shield is he."

Parallel Commentaries ...


You who fear
יִרְאֵ֣י (yir·’ê)
Adjective - masculine plural construct
Strong's 3373: Fearing, reverent

the LORD,
יְ֭הוָה (Yah·weh)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3068: LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israel

trust
בִּטְח֣וּ (biṭ·ḥū)
Verb - Qal - Imperative - masculine plural
Strong's 982: To trust, be confident, sure

in the LORD!
בַיהוָ֑ה (Yah·weh)
Preposition-b | Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3068: LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israel

He
הֽוּא׃ (hū)
Pronoun - third person masculine singular
Strong's 1931: He, self, the same, this, that, as, are

is their help
עֶזְרָ֖ם (‘ez·rām)
Noun - masculine singular construct | third person masculine plural
Strong's 5828: A help, helper

and shield.
וּמָגִנָּ֣ם (ū·mā·ḡin·nām)
Conjunctive waw | Noun - common singular construct | third person masculine plural
Strong's 4043: A shield, a protector, the scaly hide of the crocodile


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OT Poetry: Psalm 115:11 You who fear Yahweh trust in Yahweh! (Psalm Ps Psa.)