Psalm 34:1 Meaning and Explanation
“I will bless the LORD at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The Context of Psalm 34:1
Psalm 34 is a song of thanksgiving traditionally linked to David's escape from danger. Verse 1 sets the tone with a vow of unceasing praise.
What Does Psalm 34:1 Mean?
This opening verse is a settled resolve to praise God constantly, in every season and circumstance. David vows to bless the Lord "at all times," reaching beyond the days when things go well. The phrase deliberately includes the hard days as well as the good. Praise becomes a fixed habit of life rather than a reaction to good fortune.
Two parallel lines reinforce the commitment. "I will bless the LORD at all times" speaks of an unbroken posture of the heart, and "his praise shall continually be in my mouth" makes that inner posture audible. The repetition of constancy ("at all times," "continually") is the point: this is worship as a way of life. Tradition connects this psalm to a time when David had narrowly escaped grave danger, which makes the resolve more remarkable; gratitude is born out of deliverance and then committed to permanence. The verse challenges a praise that comes only when blessings are obvious. Instead it models a heart so convinced of God's goodness that praise flows even through trouble. To bless the Lord "at all times" is to let worship steady the soul rather than wait on circumstances.
Psalm 34:1 in the Original Language
The Hebrew barak ("bless") means to kneel or adore, and tehillah ("praise") refers to a song or act of praise offered to God.
Bible Verses Related to Psalm 34:1
“O magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together.”
- Psalm 34:3
“Every day will I bless thee; and I will praise thy name for ever and ever.”
- Psalm 145:2
“To the end that my glory may sing praise to thee, and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give thanks unto thee for ever.”
- Psalm 30:12
How to Apply Psalm 34:1 Today
Make praise a settled habit rather than a mood, choosing to bless God in difficult seasons as well as joyful ones.
Frequently Asked Questions About Psalm 34:1
What does Psalm 34:1 mean?
This opening verse is a settled resolve to praise God constantly, in every season and circumstance. David vows to bless the Lord "at all times," reaching beyond the days when things go well. The phrase deliberately includes the hard days as well as the good. Praise becomes a fixed habit of life rather than a reaction to good fortune.
What is the context of Psalm 34:1?
Psalm 34 is a song of thanksgiving traditionally linked to David's escape from danger. Verse 1 sets the tone with a vow of unceasing praise.
How can I apply Psalm 34:1 today?
Make praise a settled habit rather than a mood, choosing to bless God in difficult seasons as well as joyful ones.