Psalm 33 21

Psalm 33:21 kjv

For our heart shall rejoice in him, because we have trusted in his holy name.

Psalm 33:21 nkjv

For our heart shall rejoice in Him, Because we have trusted in His holy name.

Psalm 33:21 niv

In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name.

Psalm 33:21 esv

For our heart is glad in him, because we trust in his holy name.

Psalm 33:21 nlt

In him our hearts rejoice,
for we trust in his holy name.

Psalm 33 verses

Psalm 33 21 Meaning

Psalm 33:21 declares that the inward rejoicing of the believer's heart is directly sourced from and maintained by a confident trust in the holy, set-apart character and revealed nature of God. This verse articulates a profound truth that spiritual joy is not fleeting emotion but a settled conviction stemming from absolute reliance on God's trustworthiness and His divine essence.

Psalm 33 21 Context

Psalm 33 is a communal hymn of praise, calling all righteous ones to rejoice in the Lord. The psalm unfolds themes of God's perfect word, His creative power as the sovereign Maker of the heavens and earth, His control over nations and human plans, and His unique awareness of every human heart. It consistently contrasts God's unfailing purposes with the futility of human strength or plans. Verses 16-19 specifically declare that human might, horses, or a great army cannot save, but the Lord looks on those who fear Him and hope in His steadfast love to deliver their soul. Verse 21, therefore, serves as a capstone, explaining why believers are justified in trusting God: because their joy is inextricably linked to, and indeed dependent on, a genuine trust in the holy character and power that God has revealed Himself to be. It highlights the internal, heartfelt response to God's magnificent attributes previously celebrated.

Psalm 33 21 Word analysis

• For (כִּֽי - kî): A conjunction indicating a causal relationship, meaning "because" or "indeed." It explains the reason for the exhortation to rejoice and gives the basis for the psalmist's affirmation.
• our heart (לִבֵּנוּ - libbēnu): In Hebrew thought, the "heart" (לֵב - lēv) is not merely the seat of emotions but the totality of a person's inner being: the center of intellect, will, intention, and conscience. So, "our heart rejoices" signifies a comprehensive, profound, and intentional inner delight.
• rejoices (יִשְׂמַ֥ח - yiśmaḥ): From the root שָׂמַח (samakh), meaning to be joyful, glad. This denotes a deep, unfeigned delight, not superficial happiness. It describes a settled, inner gladness and contentment that originates from God.
• in Him (בּֽוֹ - bō): This preposition indicates that God Himself is the object, source, and sphere of this joy. The joy is found in Him, by being united with Him.
• Because (כִּ֥י - kî): Repeated for emphasis, underscoring the direct and necessary cause-and-effect relationship between trusting and rejoicing. It's not a mere correlation but a foundational spiritual principle.
• we trust (בָטַחְנוּ - bāṭaḥnū): From the root בָּטַח (baṭaḥ), meaning to trust, confide in, feel secure, lean on. It signifies a profound, active reliance and dependence on someone or something. It implies a settled conviction and inner confidence.
• in His holy name (בְּשֵׁם קָדְשֽׁוֹ - bəšēm qodshō):
  • Name (שֵׁם - šēm): In biblical thought, God's "name" embodies His entire being, His character, attributes, authority, and power as He has revealed Himself. It is not merely a label but encompasses His essence, His promises, and His very reputation.
  • His holy (קָדְשֽׁוֹ - qodshō): From the root קָדַשׁ (qādash), meaning to be set apart, consecrated, sacred, distinct. God's holiness means He is utterly separate from sin, perfect in moral purity, transcendent, and supremely glorious. Trusting in His holy name means trusting in a God whose very character is untainted, perfectly righteous, and reliable beyond measure.

Word-group analysis

• our heart rejoices in Him: This phrase highlights an internal, spiritual delight. It is a joy that stems not from external circumstances or human achievements, but from an intimate relationship and personal reliance on God. The whole person, the innermost being, finds gladness in God Himself.
• Because we trust in His holy name: This second phrase explains the basis for the heart's rejoicing. The joy is a direct consequence of faith. Trusting in "His holy name" means putting one's complete confidence in the integrity, power, and promises of a perfectly righteous and utterly distinct God. This trust is not blind; it is founded on the consistent, revealed character of a holy God who never fails.

Psalm 33 21 Bonus section

The phrase "His holy name" serves as a powerful theological concept. It signifies that our trust is not in an abstract deity, but in the God who has actively revealed Himself to humanity, particularly through His covenant acts and attributes of mercy, justice, and power. Believers rely on the unchangeable truth of who God is – His holiness, righteousness, faithfulness, and omnipotence – which collectively define His name. This holy name forms the immovable ground of our faith and the source of our deepest spiritual satisfaction. The sequence implies a chosen posture: trust comes first, and joy follows, demonstrating God's provision for both security and gladness in His presence.

Psalm 33 21 Commentary

Psalm 33:21 concisely expresses a core truth of the Christian faith: authentic spiritual joy (rejoicing of the heart) is not self-generated or based on circumstances, but is the outflow of profound trust in God's character, embodied in "His holy name." This joy is therefore secure and unwavering because it rests on the unchanging nature of a holy God, not on the shifting sands of human feelings or earthly stability. When believers wholeheartedly depend on God, finding their security and hope in His set-apart, perfect, and trustworthy essence, their deepest being finds true delight. It underscores that trust is not passive, but an active leaning into God's character, leading to an undeniable experience of inner gladness and peace, which reflects His saving power and faithfulness.