Psalm 31 Study Notes

31:14-15 The request to be in God’s power instead of the power of one’s enemies is the central plea in this psalm (v. 5; cp. 2Sm 24:14).

31:16-18 The disgrace of one of God’s faithful ones reflects negatively on the Lord’s reputation (see notes at 22:6-8 and 25:1-3). Sheol is “the silence of death” (94:17; 115:17), where the dead are no longer able to communicate with the living. Death is the only thing that will quiet the deception (lying lips) of these enemies.

31:19 It is often said that God has stored up the sins and punishment of people (Jb 21:19; Hs 13:12), but here it is God’s goodness that is stored up for those who fear him (1Co 2:9).

31:20 On hide and conceal, see note at 17:8.

31:21 The psalmist likens his trouble to being in a city under siege. Alternately, it could be translated “in a fortified city” and be compared to how the Lord has cared for him.

31:22 To be cut off means to be separated, as in the case of being cut off from the Israelite community (Ex 12:15; Nm 19:13). The most extreme form of separation is death (Ex 9:15; 31:14; Jr 9:21). Being cut off from God’s sight refers to his rejection that results in separation from him. It is similar to other terms for rejection such as God being “far away” or “hiding” from the psalmist (see note at 10:1-2).

31:23 The loyal could also be “those with integrity” or “those with faith” (cp. Hab 2:4).

31:24 The words strong and courageous recall the words of God to Joshua and Israel to prepare them for the conquest of the promised land (Dt 31:6-7,23; Jos 1:6-7,9,18).