Bible Strands
Psalms 32:10
Many are the sorrows of the wicked, but loving devotion surrounds him who trusts in the LORD.
Berean Standard Bible
Follow its threads on the canvas →
Study note
Setting — The psalmist addresses the assembly, contrasting the fate of the wicked with those who trust Yahweh, positioned immediately after a warning against stubbornness and before a call for the righteous to rejoice.
The words — The Hebrew מַכְאוֹבִ֗ים (makh.'o.Vim) denotes pains or sorrows, while חֶ֝֗סֶד (Che.sed) signifies covenant loyalty that actively surrounds (יְסוֹבְבֶֽ/נּוּ) the one who trusts (הַ/בּוֹטֵ֥חַ) in Yahweh.
The thread — This contrast between the consequences of rebellion and the protection of trust appears in Proverbs 13:21 and Proverbs 16:20, while the theme of trusting without fear connects to Isaiah 12:2.
Why it lands — The text declares that the wicked endure numerous sorrows while covenant loyalty encircles the trusting individual, demanding a deliberate choice to rely on Yahweh rather than stubborn self-reliance.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Hebrew words
King James Version
Many sorrows shall be to the wicked: but he that trusteth in the Lord, mercy shall compass him about.
Cross-references
- Proverbs 16:20 Whoever heeds instruction will find success, and blessed is he who trusts in the LORD.
- Isaiah 12:2 Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. For the LORD GOD is my strength and my song, and He also has become my salvation.”
- Proverbs 13:21 Disaster pursues sinners, but prosperity is the reward of the righteous.
- Psalms 147:11 The LORD is pleased with those who fear Him, who hope in His loving devotion.
- Romans 2:8 But for those who are self-seeking and who reject the truth and follow wickedness, there will be wrath and anger.
- Psalms 146:5 Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the LORD his God,
- 1 Timothy 6:10 For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. By craving it, some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many sorrows.
- Psalms 5:12 For surely You, O LORD, bless the righteous; You surround them with the shield of Your favor.
- Psalms 34:8 Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him!
- Psalms 34:19 Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the LORD delivers him from them all.