Definition: Blessed [be] the LORD: for he hath shewed me his marvellous kindness in a strong city.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful and poignant verse from Psalm 31:21: “Blessed [be] the LORD: for he hath shewed me his marvellous kindness in a strong city.” Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is about God’s love and grace, particularly when He sees us through difficult times. It’s saying that God actively shows us His kindness – He doesn’t just offer it; He reveals it to us in a way that's powerful and comforting. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Blessed [be] the LORD…” : This is a direct expression of gratitude and adoration towards God. It means "Praise be to God!" It’s a sincere thank you for His existence and goodness. “…for he hath shewed me his marvellous kindness…” : This is the key part. “Shewed” means revealed or shown. “Marvelous kindness” means something truly remarkable, something that goes beyond what we expect. It suggests a profound and surprising display of love. “In a strong city” : This is where it gets really interesting and symbolic. A "strong city" isn't necessarily a physical place like Jerusalem. It represents: Safety & Protection: A safe and secure environment, free from danger and worry. Stability & Purpose: A place of groundedness, where you feel like you have a firm foundation in life. A Place of Hope: A place where you can believe in the future and have confidence. So, putting it all together: The verse is saying that God has shown us a remarkable display of love and care – a truly impressive and reassuring presence in our lives, especially during challenging times. It's like He’s actively protecting and supporting us. Overall Meaning & Context: Psalm 31 is a powerful prayer for deliverance from despair and worry. The speaker feels overwhelmed by his struggles and questions God’s goodness. This verse is a moment of profound relief – it’s a reminder that God isn't just present but actively shows us His love. It speaks to the idea that God has a plan for us, even when we can't see it. In short, this verse emphasizes that God’s love is not just a feeling; He actively demonstrates His care and protection. --- Would you like me to: Explain another part of the psalm? Provide some context about the time the verse was written?