Definition: O love the LORD, all ye his saints: [for] the LORD preserveth the faithful, and plentifully rewardeth the proud doer.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down Psalm 31:23. It’s a really beautiful and important verse from the Bible that speaks about God's care for those who follow Him. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that God loves and protects those who truly love Him. It’s encouraging us to actively show our devotion to Him, and He will reward the people who do so. Let's break it down word by word: "O love the LORD..." : This is a direct plea – “Listen to me!” It's a call to adoration and reverence for God. "...all ye his saints:" : “All those who are His followers” - This refers to all believers, all those who have chosen to follow God’s path. "[for] the LORD preserveth the faithful..." : “Because the Lord protects the faithful.” This is the core of the verse. "Preserveth" means to protect or safeguard. So, God is actively guarding and keeping these people safe from harm. "...and plentifully rewardeth the proud doer." : “And He rewards the arrogant person.” This is a bit more nuanced. "Rewardeth" means to give something back. “The proud doer” represents someone who is selfish, boastful, or doesn’t truly humble themselves before God. The verse suggests that God will give back to those who are faithful and righteous – offering them blessings and rewards for their devotion. In a nutshell: God loves his followers fiercely and will give them back what they've earned through their faith and obedience. It’s about a reciprocal relationship where God is both protective and rewarding those who love Him. Why it matters: This verse speaks to the importance of living a life that reflects our devotion to God. It’s a reminder that genuine faith isn’t just about believing; it's about actively loving and serving Him. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of Psalm 31? Discuss the meaning of the word "preserveth"? Connect this verse to a specific theme in the Bible (like faith, obedience, or forgiveness)?