What is the meaning of Psalm 94:19

First, the context details of Psalm 94 need to be identified before answering the question regarding verse nineteen. The Book of Psalms* is a divinely inspired work of the Holy Spirit. The prophetic words teach the reader that it is God, Who has ordered all matters of life. He is in control over all He has created. Yes, even in what appears chaotic, out of control. His Sovereign and mighty right hand holds all together (Joshua 1:9; Matthew 19:26).

Central to Book IV of the Book of Psalms is the topic of “testing” (90-106). This testing comes in various forms. In context, the psalmist is seeking vengeance for the evil perpetrated upon those who followed God. It was difficult, impossible to escape from the harassment. Even murders upon the weak and poor were becoming the norm (vv 1-7).

As it was then, it is the same now. Persecution is perpetrated upon Christians. Followers of God are never alone in their trials. He is always near to His own. It may seem when challenges present themselves that God is nowhere to be found. No intervention can be seen. Nothing is changing. That was the psalmist's perspective.

He appeals to God, his Judge. Christians do the same. They ask, “When will You punish the proud?” He will in His perfect timing according to His purposed plans. Will the LORD stand up for the righteous redeemed soul? Again Yes! He will according to His purposed plans and in His perfect timing. The testing that comes calls out to the faithful to draw near to Him. To center their faith upon Jesus. Therefore, continue to pray and do what is needed in times of trials. Learn from the experience as you move through it, whenever possible.

Redeemed souls are not static. They are living stones being built up. A spiritual house is always under construction. The Contractor is Christ Jesus (1 Peter 2:5). This building-up can be quite challenging because people live in a Fallen world. In Psalm 94, the psalmist is asking direct questions of God. He is pouring out his heart and soul. His first decision to go directly to God for help was a soulful one. O LORD GOD,to whom vengeance belongs (v1). The psalmist knows God is able to correct the injustices. Next he boldly states his need.

He takes a breath and immediately asks the LORD ... shine forth! He is asking God to help His own for they need Him. This testing is difficult and at times unbearable. People plead … Act now Lord!

This cadence between the psalmist and God continues as the psalmist asks, comments, and pleads for the LORD to intervene in earthly struggles (vv 1-2).

The next question is “when”? When Lord; When will You come and rescue us?

The psalmist’s mind turns to the ungodly and chastises them before the LORD for their ignorance and crimes. Although discouraged, his perspective has shifted and settles upon how truly foolish these perpetrators are in their deeds. Do they not understand that they cannot hide from God who is All-knowing, All-seeing, and more powerful than any created god, king, or man? Not even their thoughts can be hidden from Him (vv 3-11). His questions and concerns overlap.

After asking more questions, the psalmist’s mood shifts again, and he begins to focus back upon the Creator. He weaves his thoughts in and out, back, and forth. The mind can scatter thoughts when faced with tremendous challenges. Challenges that create anxieties and discouragement make it difficult to focus. And yet focus is what is needed.

The psalmist was discouraged by what he saw, and his heart ached for all who suffered. Life can at times be discouraging.

The Psalmist’s raw emotions are evident in the tone of his words. He is asking not just when, but also wonders how these horrible conditions can be changed. He wonders if there is anyone among the people who can step forward and rescue the broken lives he is witnessing all around himself?

The questions and mood ebb and flow throughout the psalm. This up and down response to trials and challenges in life is common for all people. There are several verses that seem to ask the same question but stated differently than the previous one. He is confused. He struggles with the “whys,” “when's” and the lack of change not known or experienced as yet. The change is not recognized from his perspective in part because of the suffering he is experiencing. His thoughts turn to the question of justice.

Is there justice in this world? Today, there remains societal injustices. For the psalmist and those of his era, the questions are fundamentally alike. The psalmist, a follower of God, spoke directly to the Righteous Judge for help. Praying to Jesus remains the same regarding all matters under the Son, then and now.

Newspaper journalists document court proceedings that provide little to no justice for the victim. People will ask, “Why is there no justice?” Court systems are supposed to follow the laws of the nation. The judicial system discerns legal matters. It has been noted often that legal matters are not about justice, but about law. Human laws can be imperfect. Evil can triumph in this imperfect world (v20). The redeemed have the LORD for their defense.

The Psalms in general address everyday life, work, marriage, family, and the challenges that come from daily living. They are themes most people can identify with.

Life trials can be frustrating and anxiety producing. Many have asked the same questions the psalmist is asking. The familiar response to desperate trials is fear and anxiety. These strong emotions can debilitate a person. Life experiences filtered through time can still produce anxiety. Yes, even for the redeemed soul. Christ has provided for the anxious soul. Christ makes Himself available to His followers.

Prayer is part of the process for reducing and even eliminating anxieties, worries and depression. In prayer the saint is seeking elimination of fear, and/or the ability to function under the stressors. The Word provides examples of how previous saints processed or escaped anxieties. One verse to embrace is Philippians 4:13... I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength. Prayer can center the mind and soul upon the LORD.

Psalm 94 was written in 588 BC. The condition of the world then was as it is today ... a Fallen world. It is also important to note that Jesus understands that there are physical and psychological maladies that necessitate medical intervention. A person dealing with anxieties, depression or any of the physical systems that come with them needs to have a thorough medical evaluation.

What is the meaning of Psalm 94:19? In the multitude of my anxieties within me, Your comforts delight my soul. The LORD goes before His own and makes the crooked places straight. He does this out of great love for you.

John 1:14 reads ...And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us. He will make His home in your heart through faith; that you being rooted and grounded in love, (Eph. 3:17). Keep seeking Him, the loving and faithful God.

And here is something to note for the hunting, fishing, camping enthusiasts, the Greek word for “dwelt/dwell” means “to pitch a tent.”

May the LORD of your heart become alive with fresh meaning and powering. In this you can say, “More of You and less of me dear Jesus.”