Psalms 68:10
Thy Congregation hath dwelt therein: thou, O God, hast prepared of thy goodnesse for the poore. Psalms 68:10 (KJV)
The line is often cited as if it were from Psalm 68, a psalm traditionally attributed to King David. Psalm 68 is indeed a psalm of praise and celebration, acknowledging God’s power, triumph, and provision for His people. While the wording of the cited line does not occur in Psalm 68:10—and elsewhere in that psalm—in standard translations, the thematic elements it expresses resonate with the broader message of the psalm and with the overall witness of Scripture.
The phrase “Thy congregation hath dwelt therein” points to the people of Israel dwelling in the land that God has given them, emphasizing a future fulfillment of God’s promises to His people. The continuation, “thou, O God, hast prepared of thy goodness for the poor,” highlights God’s concern for the vulnerable and His provision for those who lack material resources. This reflects a consistent biblical portrait of God as a compassionate Father who cares for the marginalized, the destitute, and the needy.
Even though the specific wording is not found in the canonical text of Psalm 68:10, the principle it conveys is firmly rooted in Scripture. Throughout the Bible, God’s heart for the poor is repeatedly affirmed, and believers are called to emulate that compassion. The study of this verse therefore encourages Christians to live out their faith in practical ways—extending help, generosity, and love to those who are less fortunate. By caring for the poor and marginalized, believers demonstrate the character of God and fulfill the biblical mandate to act with kindness and justice toward all people.
In summary, while the exact quotation may not be present in the standard Psalm 68 text, its themes of God’s provision, the dwelling of His people, and the call to care for the poor align with the spirit of the psalm and the broader biblical narrative, urging believers to reflect God’s goodness in tangible acts of compassion.
