Verse

Psalm 31:1

ESV In you, O Lord, do I take refuge; let me never be put to shame; in your righteousness deliver me!
NIV For the director of music. A psalm of David. In you, Lord, I have taken refuge; let me never be put to shame; deliver me in your righteousness.
NASB In You, Lord, I have taken refuge; Let me never be put to shame; In Your righteousness rescue me.
CSB For the choir director. A psalm of David. Lord, I seek refuge in you; let me never be disgraced. Save me by your righteousness.
NLT O Lord, I have come to you for protection; don’t let me be disgraced. Save me, for you do what is right.
KJV To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David. In thee, O Lord, do I put my trust; let me never be ashamed: deliver me in thy righteousness.
NKJV {To the Chief Musician. A Psalm of David.} In You, O Lord, I put my trust; Let me never be ashamed; Deliver me in Your righteousness.

What does Psalm 31:1 mean?

David prays to the Lord, placing all his trust in God. The Hebrew phrasing implies that David is entirely depending on God for his safety, as would those who rest in a fortress or sanctuary. This appeal for security is based on the Lord's righteousness. Centuries earlier Abraham interceded for Sodom, saying, "Shall not the Judge of all the earth do what is just?" (Genesis 18:25). David believes his plea will lead to a favorable answer; it's likely tied to David's role as the legitimate king of Israel. He reasons that his righteous Lord would not allow him to "be put to shame." That phrase refers to defeat and loss (Psalm 25:2).

It is to David's credit that he understood the Lord's desire to protect His people. That desire does not mean God will never allow hardship, but believers can trust the Lord to do what is right. He safeguards those who trust in Him. John 10:29 quotes Jesus as promising, "My Father, who has given [believers] to me, is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father's hand." When trouble confronts a believer, he should trust and not tremble.
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