Psalm 27:14

Commentary on Psalm 27:14 (NKJV) 

Psalm 27:14 (NKJV): “Wait on the Lord; Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the Lord!” 

Context and Overview 

Psalm 27 is a psalm of David, expressing his deep trust in the Lord amidst adversities. The psalm is divided into two main sections: verses 1–6, which reflect David’s confidence in God’s protection, and verses 7–14, which are a prayer for God’s continued presence and deliverance. Psalm 27:14 serves as a concluding exhortation, encouraging believers to wait on the Lord with courage and faith. 

Theological Insights 

Psalm 27:14 is rich with theological significance: 

1. Sovereignty of God: The exhortation to “wait on the Lord” underscores the sovereignty of God in the life of the believer. It acknowledges that God is in control and that His timing is perfect. This aligns with the emphasis on God’s absolute sovereignty over all aspects of life (Romans 8:28). 

2. Faith and Patience: The call to “be of good courage” and to wait on the Lord highlights the importance of faith and patience in the Christian walk. Hebrews 11:1 defines faith as “the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” Waiting on the Lord requires trusting in His promises, even when immediate circumstances are challenging. 

3. Strength from God: The promise that “He shall strengthen your heart” reflects the belief in God’s sustaining grace. Philippians 4:13 states, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” This verse reassures believers that God provides the necessary strength to endure trials and remain steadfast in faith. 

4. Perseverance of the Saints: The repeated exhortation to “wait” emphasises the perseverance of the saints, a key tenet of Christian theology. Believers are called to endure and remain faithful, trusting that God will ultimately deliver and vindicate them (James 1:12). 

Application to Modern Christian Living 

Psalm 27:14 offers practical guidance for modern Christians: 

1. Trust in God’s Timing: In a fast-paced world, waiting can be difficult. However, believers are encouraged to trust in God’s perfect timing and His plan for their lives. This trust is rooted in the assurance of God’s sovereignty and goodness. 

2. Courage in Adversity: Facing trials and uncertainties requires courage. Christians are reminded to draw strength from their faith in God, knowing that He is their refuge and strength (Psalm 46:1). 

3. Dependence on God’s Strength: Recognising human limitations, believers are encouraged to rely on God’s strength rather than their own. This dependence fosters humility and a deeper relationship with God. 

4. Perseverance in Faith: The call to wait on the Lord is a call to persevere in faith. Christians are reminded that their hope is in the Lord, and they are to remain steadfast, knowing that God is faithful to His promises. 

Bibliography 

1. The Holy Bible, New King James Version. Thomas Nelson, 1982. 

2. Calvin, John. Commentary on the Book of Psalms. Translated by James Anderson, Christian Classics Ethereal Library. 

3. Sproul, R.C. The Reformation Study Bible. Reformation Trust Publishing, 2005. 

4. Piper, John. Desiring God: Meditations of a Christian Hedonist. Multnomah Books, 2003. 

5. Grudem, Wayne. Systematic Theology: An Introduction to Biblical Doctrine. Zondervan, 1994. 

Psalm 27:14 serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of waiting on the Lord with courage and faith. It encourages believers to trust in God’s sovereignty, rely on His strength, and persevere in their faith, knowing that God is faithful to His promises.