Psalms 145:20

The Lord preserueth all them that loue him: but all the wicked will he destroy. Psalms 145:20 (KJV)

Psalm 145 is a beautiful hymn of praise written by King David. It is an acrostic psalm, meaning that each verse begins with a successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet, though it is missing the verse for the letter “nun.” The psalm exalts the greatness and goodness of God, emphasizing His mercy, compassion, and faithfulness.

In Psalm 145:20, the KJV states that the Lord preserves all who love Him; many modern translations add a contrasting reference to the wicked. The verse begins by affirming that the Lord preserves or keeps safe all those who love Him. This emphasizes the divine protection and care that God extends to those who have a genuine love and devotion for Him.

God’s preservation is a theme that is prevalent throughout the Bible. The Lord’s preservation extends to various aspects of the lives of those who love Him. It includes protection from harm, deliverance from enemies, provision of needs, and the sustaining of their faith. This preservation is an expression of God’s faithfulness, love, and commitment to His people.

The second part of Psalm 145:20 states that God will destroy the wicked. Many translations include this statement, which highlights the justice of God. It affirms that the Lord will bring judgment upon those who persist in their wicked ways and reject Him. This destruction is a consequence of their unrepentant rebellion against God’s righteous standards.

In this verse, “love” refers to a genuine affection and devotion toward God. It encompasses a relationship of trust, obedience, and reverence. On the other hand, “wicked” describes those who deliberately and persistently act in ways contrary to God’s moral standards. They reject God’s authority and indulge in sinful behavior without repentance.

Psalm 145:20 teaches several important lessons. It encourages us to develop a deep love and devotion for God, knowing that He preserves and watches over His people. It reminds us of God’s justice and the accountability that awaits the wicked. This should serve as a warning and an invitation for all to turn away from sin and seek God’s forgiveness. It underscores the importance of living a righteous life, guided by God’s Word and in accordance with His will.