Psalms 40:9 Meaning and Explanation
“I have preached righteousness in the great congregation: lo, I have not refrained my lips, O LORD, thou knowest.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The psalmist boldly proclaims righteousness publicly and openly before others.
The Context of Psalms 40:9
Internal conviction naturally overflows into public proclamation.
What Does Psalms 40:9 Mean?
From inner transformation flows outward witness. The psalmist goes to the great congregation—the assembled people—and declares what he knows to be true about God's character and ways. This is not a whisper but a proclamation; not selectively chosen but unreserved communication of righteousness.
'I have not refrained my lips' means he spoke freely without holding back or censoring himself. He proclaimed what he experienced. The phrase 'thou knowest' addresses God directly—not for approval but in acknowledgment that God sees the faithful public witness.
Frequently Asked Questions About Psalms 40:9
What does Psalms 40:9 mean?
The psalmist boldly proclaims righteousness publicly and openly before others.
What is the context of Psalms 40:9?
Internal conviction naturally overflows into public proclamation.