What does Psalm 34:9 mean?

In this verse David calls upon the Lord's people: His "saints." As in the New Testament, the term "saint" refers to those who sincerely follow God. There is no special title of saint which makes one believer holier than others.

David calls on those who worship God to reverence and respect Him. This is the meaning of the term "fear," which implies submissive honor, rather than panic or horror. Believers need not dread God. He is their loving heavenly Father who cares for His children. However, believers should reverence God.

Jesus taught His disciples to address God as their Father and to say, "Father, hallowed be your name" (Luke 11:2). Jesus also taught believers to trust the heavenly Father to supply all their needs. He counseled us not to worry about material things, because "your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you" (Matthew 6:31–33).

Psalm 84:11 reinforces this idea of God's goodness and protection: "For the LORD God is a sun and shield; the LORD bestows favor and honor. No good thing does he withhold from those who walk uprightly."