Psalms 86:17

Shew me a token for good; that they which hate me may see it, and be ashamed: because thou, Lord, hast holpen me, and comforted me.

Psalms 86:17 (KJV)

Context

Psalm 86 is a prayer of David, who turns to God in a time of trouble. He opens with pleas for mercy and help, then declares God’s character and greatness. This final verse is the climax of the whole prayer. David moves from personal need to public testimony, asking God to act in a way that others can see.

Meaning

David asks God to “shew me a token for good.” The Hebrew word for “token” means a sign or a miracle. He wants visible proof of God’s favour, not just a private feeling. The purpose is clear: “that they which hate me may see it, and be ashamed.” This is not vindictive gloating. It is the natural result of enemies seeing that God stands with His servant. Their opposition is shown to be futile.

David then gives the reason for his confidence: “because thou, Lord, hast holpen me, and comforted me.” The word “holpen” is an old form of “helped.” David looks back on God’s past help and comfort. These past experiences are the ground of his present trust. He knows that the God who helped him before will help him again. The request for a token is not presumption but a humble plea rooted in David’s relationship with God.

Biblical connections

David’s enemies are those who hate him without cause, as he also mentions in Psalm 69:4. The request for a sign fits a wider biblical pattern where God gives visible confirmation of His promises, such as the rainbow or the miracles of the exodus. Yet here the sign is personal, for David’s own assurance and for the witness of those around him.

Application

Believers today may pray for visible evidence of God’s favour, not for selfish reasons, but so that others may see His faithfulness. When God answers, the result can be a testimony that silences critics and brings glory to Him. David’s prayer teaches us to ask boldly, while remaining humble and rooted in our relationship with God. We can trust that God will act on our behalf, and His help and comfort are sure.

Reflection

God’s help and comfort are sure. Like David, we can rest in the certainty that the Lord has helped us and will continue to comfort us. Our deliverance can become a witness to others, showing that God is faithful to His people.