Psalms 119:63
I am a companion of all them that fear thee, and of them that keep thy precepts.
Original Language Analysis
לְכָל
H3605
לְכָל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
3 of 7
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
אֲשֶׁ֣ר
H834
אֲשֶׁ֣ר
Strong's:
H834
Word #:
4 of 7
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
יְרֵא֑וּךָ
of all them that fear
H3372
יְרֵא֑וּךָ
of all them that fear
Strong's:
H3372
Word #:
5 of 7
to fear; morally to revere; causatively to frighten
Cross References
Psalms 101:6Mine eyes shall be upon the faithful of the land, that they may dwell with me: he that walketh in a perfect way, he shall serve me.Proverbs 13:20He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.Psalms 119:79Let those that fear thee turn unto me, and those that have known thy testimonies.1 John 1:3That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ.Psalms 16:3But to the saints that are in the earth, and to the excellent, in whom is all my delight.Psalms 142:7Bring my soul out of prison, that I may praise thy name: the righteous shall compass me about; for thou shalt deal bountifully with me.Psalms 119:115Depart from me, ye evildoers: for I will keep the commandments of my God.1 John 3:14We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death.
Historical Context
Israel's covenant identity was communal—the assembly (qahal) of God's people set apart from nations. Exile tested this—would scattered Jews maintain distinct identity or assimilate? Those who feared God formed faithful remnants (Malachi 3:16). Early Christians were distinguished by their fellowship (koinonia), sharing meals, possessions, and persecution while maintaining unity across ethnic divides (Acts 2:42-47).
Questions for Reflection
- Do your closest companions share your fear of God and commitment to His Word, or are relationships built on lesser foundations?
- How can you cultivate deeper fellowship with those who 'fear God' without becoming isolated or judgmental toward unbelievers?
- What practical steps might strengthen the spiritual quality of your friendships and church community?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
I am a companion of all them that fear thee, and of them that keep thy precepts. The word companion (חָבֵר, chaver) implies intimate fellowship and deliberate association, not casual acquaintance. This partnership is defined by shared spiritual commitment: those that fear thee (יְרֵאֶיךָ, yere'ekha)—reverent awe of God—and keep thy precepts (שֹׁמְרֵי פִקּוּדֶיךָ, shomerei piqqudekha)—obedient practice.
This verse establishes that genuine faith produces spiritual community. We choose companions based on shared ultimate loyalties. Amos asked, 'Can two walk together unless they are agreed?' (Amos 3:3). The New Testament emphasizes believers as koinonia (fellowship) united in Christ. Paul warned against unequal yoking with unbelievers (2 Corinthians 6:14), not from snobbery but recognition that deepest fellowship requires shared foundation—the fear of God and obedience to His Word.