Psalm 86:5

For You, O Lord, are kind and forgiving, rich in loving devotion to all who call on You.

Study Bible

For You, O Lord
This phrase establishes the direct address to God, acknowledging His supreme authority and sovereignty. The Hebrew word for "Lord" here is "Adonai," which signifies God's lordship and mastery over all creation. It is a term of respect and reverence, recognizing God's ultimate power and control. Historically, this title has been used to express the deep relationship between God and His people, emphasizing His role as a protector and provider.

are kind
The Hebrew word for "kind" is "tov," which encompasses goodness, kindness, and benevolence. This word reflects God's inherent nature to do good and to be good to His creation. In the scriptural context, God's kindness is not just a passive attribute but an active force that seeks the well-being of His people. It is a reminder of the countless instances in the Bible where God's kindness is demonstrated through His actions and promises.

and forgiving
The term "forgiving" comes from the Hebrew word "salach," which means to pardon or spare. This word is deeply rooted in the covenant relationship between God and His people, where forgiveness is a central theme. God's willingness to forgive is a testament to His mercy and grace, offering redemption and restoration to those who repent. Historically, this concept of divine forgiveness has been a cornerstone of the faith, providing hope and assurance to believers.

rich in loving devotion
The phrase "rich in loving devotion" is translated from the Hebrew "chesed," which is often rendered as "steadfast love" or "covenant loyalty." This word is rich in meaning, encompassing love, mercy, faithfulness, and kindness. It signifies God's unwavering commitment to His covenant with His people, a love that is abundant and overflowing. In the historical context, "chesed" is a defining characteristic of God's relationship with Israel, highlighting His enduring faithfulness despite their unfaithfulness.

to all who call on You
This phrase emphasizes the inclusivity of God's love and mercy. The act of calling on God implies prayer, supplication, and a recognition of His power and authority. The Hebrew word "qara" means to call out, proclaim, or summon. It suggests an active seeking of God's presence and intervention. Scripturally, this promise of God's responsiveness to those who call on Him is a recurring theme, offering assurance that God is attentive and responsive to the cries of His people. Historically, this has been a source of comfort and encouragement for believers, affirming that God's grace is available to all who earnestly seek Him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
Traditionally attributed as the author of Psalm 86, David is a central figure in the Old Testament, known for his deep relationship with God, his psalms, and his role as the second king of Israel.

2. God (Yahweh)
The central figure in this verse, God is described with attributes of kindness, forgiveness, and loving devotion, emphasizing His character and relationship with His people.

3. Israel
While not directly mentioned in this verse, the nation of Israel is the primary audience of the Psalms, and the context of David's prayers often reflects the collective experiences and spiritual journey of Israel.

Teaching Points

God's Character
God is inherently kind and forgiving. His nature is unchanging, and His attributes are consistently revealed throughout Scripture.

Call on the Lord
The invitation to call on God is open to all. This verse encourages believers to approach God with confidence, knowing His readiness to forgive and show loving devotion.

Rich in Loving Devotion
God's love is abundant and steadfast. Believers can rely on His unwavering commitment to those who seek Him.

Forgiveness and Repentance
Understanding God's forgiving nature should lead us to repentance and a desire to live in accordance with His will.

Prayer as a Response
Prayer is a vital response to God's character. It is through prayer that we call on God, experience His kindness, and receive His forgiveness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God's kindness and forgiveness in Psalm 86:5 impact your personal relationship with Him?

2. In what ways can you incorporate calling on the Lord into your daily routine, and how does this practice align with the teachings of Psalm 86:5?

3. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's loving devotion. How did this experience shape your faith journey?

4. How do the attributes of God described in Psalm 86:5 compare to those found in Exodus 34:6-7, and what does this reveal about God's consistency throughout the Bible?

5. Considering Romans 10:12-13, how can you share the message of God's inclusive love and forgiveness with others in your community?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 34:6-7
This passage describes God as compassionate, gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in love and faithfulness, which parallels the attributes of God mentioned in Psalm 86:5.

1 John 1:9
This New Testament verse speaks about God's faithfulness and justice in forgiving sins, connecting to the theme of God's forgiveness in Psalm 86:5.

Romans 10:12-13
These verses emphasize that everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved, echoing the inclusivity of God's loving devotion mentioned in Psalm 86:5.