Psalm 111 5

Psalm 111:5 kjv

He hath given meat unto them that fear him: he will ever be mindful of his covenant.

Psalm 111:5 nkjv

He has given food to those who fear Him; He will ever be mindful of His covenant.

Psalm 111:5 niv

He provides food for those who fear him; he remembers his covenant forever.

Psalm 111:5 esv

He provides food for those who fear him; he remembers his covenant forever.

Psalm 111:5 nlt

He gives food to those who fear him;
he always remembers his covenant.

Psalm 111 verses

Psalm 111 5 Meaning

Psalm 111:5 reveals God's dual character: He is a generous provider of physical and spiritual sustenance for those who reverence Him, and He is an eternally faithful covenant-keeper. His provision is a direct outflow of His unfailing remembrance of His solemn promises and commitments to His people across generations.

Psalm 111 5 Context

Psalm 111 is an acrostic hymn of praise, with each half-line of the Hebrew original beginning with successive letters of the alphabet. It magnifies God's great works, His righteousness, grace, and compassion. The psalm's structure highlights God's attributes in an orderly and comprehensive manner, leading to the conclusion that "the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom" (Psa 111:10). Within this framework, verse 5 specifically details God's unfailing provision and eternal commitment as core aspects of His character and actions for those who relate to Him with reverence. Historically, dependence on God for daily sustenance and for fulfilling His covenant promises (such as land and descendants) was fundamental to the identity and survival of the Israelite nation.

Psalm 111 5 Word analysis

• He provides / נתן (nātan): "He gives" or "He provides." This word emphasizes God as the active agent and giver. It signifies a spontaneous and generous act, highlighting His initiative in meeting needs.
• food / טרף (ṭōrêp): Originally meaning "prey" or "torn portions," in this context, it signifies "sustenance," "provisions," or "daily bread." It suggests the very necessities for life, implying that God is the source of all the basic provisions required for existence.
• for those who fear him / ליראיו (ləyir’āw): This specifies the recipients of God's provision. "To fear" the Lord (yir’at YHVH) in biblical wisdom is not dread, but reverence, awe, humble obedience, and devotion to Him. It encompasses aligning one's life with God's will and acknowledging His supreme authority. God's provision is not indiscriminate but specifically for those who stand in this reverent relationship with Him.
• he remembers / יזכר (yizkōr): "He remembers" or "He will remember." When God "remembers," it is not merely recalling information but an active, decisive act that leads to the fulfillment of His promises. It denotes a proactive and purposeful engagement in the covenant.
• his covenant / בריתו (bərîṯō): "His covenant." A solemn agreement or binding promise between God and humanity (e.g., Noahic, Abrahamic, Mosaic, Davidic covenants). It defines the special relationship between God and His people, based on His faithfulness and grace.
• forever / לעולם (lə‘ōwlam): "Forever," "always," "eternally." This word underscores the enduring, unwavering, and unchangeable nature of God's commitment to His covenant. It conveys His steadfastness and reliability throughout all generations.

Words-group analysis

• He provides food for those who fear him: This phrase establishes a direct link between genuine piety (fear of God) and divine provision. God actively cares for the practical needs of His devoted followers, showcasing His benevolence and commitment to His faithful ones. It underscores His sovereignty as the source of all life's sustenance.
• he remembers his covenant forever: This second part reinforces God's unshakeable faithfulness. His past promises are not forgotten but serve as the foundation for His present and future actions. The eternal nature of His remembrance guarantees the perpetual validity and eventual fulfillment of His sacred covenant. This provides immense security and hope for His people, rooted in His immutable character.

Psalm 111 5 Bonus section

The active verbs "provides" (gives) and "remembers" signify God's dynamic involvement in the lives of His people. This stands in stark contrast to the passive or non-existent actions attributed to pagan deities in the ancient world. The consistency of God's character is central here; His past fidelity guarantees His future provision and covenant-keeping. This verse reinforces the idea that God's justice and righteousness, celebrated elsewhere in the psalm, are always balanced with His gracious provision and steadfast loyalty to His word.

Psalm 111 5 Commentary

Psalm 111:5 stands as a declaration of God's reliable character and actions. He actively provides for His people, demonstrating His compassion and power as the sustainer of life. This provision is directed toward "those who fear him," emphasizing that a reverent, obedient relationship with God is intrinsically linked to experiencing His blessings. The verse then anchors this provision in God's eternal memory of His covenant. God does not merely recall His promises; He actively fulfills them because His covenant is eternal and His faithfulness immutable. This reassures believers that God's past actions (provision) are directly tied to His unwavering commitment to His foundational agreements with humanity. It signifies that His provision flows from His steadfast faithfulness to His self-imposed vows. Practically, it encourages trust and a reverential walk with God, knowing that He faithfully sustains those who commit their lives to Him.

• Example 1: Just as God provided manna in the wilderness (Exod 16), He continues to provide for the daily needs of those who walk in obedience and trust Him.
• Example 2: Like God remembering His covenant with Noah to preserve life after the flood (Gen 8:1), He continues to act on His New Covenant promises, ensuring the spiritual provision and eternal security of His church (Heb 8:10).