Psalms 40:17
But I am poor and needy; yet the Lord thinketh upon me: thou art my help and my deliverer; make no tarrying, O my God.
Original Language Analysis
יַחֲשָׁ֫ב
thinketh
H2803
יַחֲשָׁ֫ב
thinketh
Strong's:
H2803
Word #:
5 of 12
properly, to plait or interpenetrate, i.e., (literally) to weave or (generally) to fabricate; figuratively, to plot or contrive (usually in a maliciou
וּמְפַלְטִ֣י
and my deliverer
H6403
וּמְפַלְטִ֣י
and my deliverer
Strong's:
H6403
Word #:
8 of 12
to slip out, i.e., escape; causatively, to deliver
אֱ֝לֹהַ֗י
O my God
H430
אֱ֝לֹהַ֗י
O my God
Strong's:
H430
Word #:
10 of 12
gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of
Cross References
Psalms 70:5But I am poor and needy: make haste unto me, O God: thou art my help and my deliverer; O LORD, make no tarrying.Isaiah 41:17When the poor and needy seek water, and there is none, and their tongue faileth for thirst, I the LORD will hear them, I the God of Israel will not forsake them.Psalms 34:6This poor man cried, and the LORD heard him, and saved him out of all his troubles.Hebrews 13:6So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.1 Peter 5:7Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.Psalms 54:4Behold, God is mine helper: the Lord is with them that uphold my soul.Psalms 40:5Many, O LORD my God, are thy wonderful works which thou hast done, and thy thoughts which are to us-ward: they cannot be reckoned up in order unto thee: if I would declare and speak of them, they are more than can be numbered.James 2:5Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him?Revelation 22:20He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.Psalms 86:1Bow down thine ear, O LORD, hear me: for I am poor and needy.
Historical Context
Self-designation as 'poor and needy' (ani ve'evyon) became technical vocabulary in Israel for the pious remnant who depended entirely on God, anticipating Jesus' beatitude: 'Blessed are the poor in spirit.'
Questions for Reflection
- How does acknowledging spiritual poverty position us to receive God's help?
- What comfort comes from knowing that the LORD 'thinketh upon' you personally?
Analysis & Commentary
The psalm concludes with paradoxical confession: David is 'poor and needy' yet the LORD 'thinketh upon me.' The Hebrew chashav (think, account, reckon) indicates intentional, ongoing attention from God. Despite David's inadequacy, he is not forgotten. The closing petition 'make no tarrying, O my God' expresses urgent trust without demanding immediate resolution.