Psalms 86:13

For great is thy mercy toward me: and thou hast delivered my soul from the lowest hell.

Psalms 86:13 (KJV)

Context

Psalm 86 is a prayer of David, written during a time of trouble. He cries out for God’s help and protection. In this verse, David turns from his request to praise. He thanks God for mercy already shown and for rescue already received. The surrounding verses show that David still faced enemies who did not honor God (Psalm 86:14). Yet his confidence rests on what God has done for him.

Meaning

The word “mercy” in this verse is the Hebrew word “chesed.” It means God’s steadfast love, kindness, and faithfulness. David does not speak of a small kindness. He says God’s mercy toward him is “great.” This mercy is not earned; it flows from God’s own character. David knows he has received more than he deserves.

The phrase “the lowest hell” is a poetic picture of the deepest distress. It can describe the grave, the place of the dead, or a state of near despair. David felt as if he were sinking into the depths, under the weight of sin and fear. God reached down and pulled him out. The deliverance was both physical and spiritual. God saved his life and also saved his soul from destruction.

Biblical connections

This verse may look back to a specific time in David’s life. After David sinned with Bathsheba, the prophet Nathan confronted him (2 Samuel 12). David repented and received God’s forgiveness. He knew the terror of guilt and the joy of being restored. His words here show that God’s mercy is powerful enough to lift a person from the deepest pit of sin.

The deliverance also points forward to Christ. Jesus descended into the depths of death and rose again for our justification. Through Him, believers receive the same saving mercy that David celebrated. God’s mercy is not only for the past; it is available to all who call on Him.

Application

David’s response to God’s mercy is gratitude. We can follow his example by remembering the times God has shown us kindness and rescued us from trouble. When we face difficult circumstances, we can trust that God is able to deliver us. His mercy is not limited by the depth of our need.

We can also use this verse as a model for prayer. We can thank God for His steadfast love, recall His past deliverances, and praise Him for His faithfulness. This practice strengthens our faith and reminds us that God is with us in every situation.

Reflection

Consider the greatness of God’s mercy toward you. Have you experienced His rescue from a time of deep distress? Take a moment to thank Him for His chesed, His loyal love that never fails. Let David’s testimony become your own: God’s mercy is great, and He delivers the soul from the lowest depths.