Psalm 31:24

Psalm 31:24 from the New King James Version (NKJV). 

Psalm 31:24 reads: “Be of good courage, 

And He shall strengthen your heart, 

All you who hope in the LORD.” 

Contextual Understanding 

Psalm 31 is a psalm of lament, attributed to David. It’s a heartfelt cry for deliverance and protection, but also a profound statement of trust in God. Verse 24, the final verse, serves as an exhortation to the community of faith based on David’s personal experience of God’s deliverance. 

Theological Insights 

1. Courage and Strength: The verse begins with a call to “be of good courage”. This isn’t a call to muster up personal bravery, but rather a call to find courage in the character and promises of God. The second part of the verse promises that God will “strengthen your heart”. In biblical language, the heart often represents the whole person—mind, will, and emotions. So, God’s strengthening is comprehensive, fortifying the believer in every aspect of their being. 

2. Hope in the LORD: The verse ends with the phrase “All you who hope in the LORD”. This hope isn’t wishful thinking, but confident expectation based on the character of God and His promises. It’s a hope rooted in God’s covenant faithfulness, which is a central theme in Reformed theology. 

Application to Modern Christian Living 

1. Finding Courage in God: In times of fear, uncertainty, or hardship, Christians are called to find their courage not in themselves, but in God. This means trusting in His character, His promises, and His providence. 

2. God as Our Strength: Christians can rely on God to provide strength in times of weakness. This strength isn’t just physical, but emotional, mental, and spiritual. It’s a strength that sustains us in trials and empowers us for service. 

3. Living in Hope: Christians are called to live in hope. This hope should shape our perspective, fuel our perseverance, and influence our actions. It’s a hope that looks beyond present circumstances to God’s promised future. 

Cited Sources 

The insights provided here are rooted in a Reformed Evangelical understanding of Scripture, drawing on the broader Christian tradition and the specific theological emphases of the Reformation. Key sources include the writings of Reformed theologians like John Calvin and Charles Spurgeon, as well as contemporary Reformed theologians and biblical scholars. 

Please note that while this commentary provides a general overview, there’s always more to learn and understand. I encourage you to continue studying Scripture, consulting reliable theological resources, and seeking the guidance of wise and knowledgeable Christian leaders in your community. Remember, the goal of studying Scripture isn’t just to gain knowledge, but to know God better and to grow in love and obedience.