Psalms 31:1 Meaning and Explanation
“In thee, O LORD, do I put my trust; let me never be ashamed: deliver me in thy righteousness.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The psalmist places his complete trust in God and asks for deliverance through God's righteousness.
The Context of Psalms 31:1
The opening prayer of a psalm of deliverance, establishing the foundation of trust.
What Does Psalms 31:1 Mean?
This psalm begins with a declaration of confidence in the Lord as the ultimate refuge. The speaker is facing distress and calls on God's proven faithfulness and character to intervene on his behalf. This opening sets the tone for the entire prayer—not a demand, but a confident petition rooted in God's nature.
To put trust in God means to commit oneself fully to His care and guidance. The request to not be ashamed reflects the hope that vindication will come, that the speaker's faith will be justified by God's protective action. Righteousness here means God's faithfulness to His covenant promises.
Psalms 31:1 in the Original Language
qavah (קָוָה), 'trust' — to wait expectantly or depend upon; often means to extend oneself toward something or someone with hope.
Frequently Asked Questions About Psalms 31:1
What does Psalms 31:1 mean?
The psalmist places his complete trust in God and asks for deliverance through God's righteousness.
What is the context of Psalms 31:1?
The opening prayer of a psalm of deliverance, establishing the foundation of trust.