Definition: Forsake me not, O LORD: O my God, be not far from me.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down Psalm 38:21. It’s a really beautiful and comforting plea for help. Here's what it means in simple terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying, “Don’t abandon me, Lord! Don’t leave me alone!” It’s a desperate expression of feeling vulnerable and needing God’s protection. Let’s unpack it word by word: “Forsake me not…” – This means "don't leave me," "abandon me," or "leave me alone." It’s a strong warning to avoid being left in distress or without support. “…O LORD: …be not far from me.” – “Lord” refers to God, and “far from me” means distant or away. The word “be” is an imperative – it's a command. So, God must be near to us. What does it mean in practice? This verse speaks to times of difficulty, sadness, loneliness, or feeling overwhelmed. It’s about recognizing that we are struggling and needing a source of comfort and strength. It’s a reminder that God is always there for us, even when we don't feel like it. Why is this important? This verse is often seen as a classic expression of faith – a deep trust in God and the assurance that He will never leave us. It speaks to our need for security and reassurance in times of hardship. In short, it’s a heartfelt request for God's presence and protection during difficult times. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you some context about the time this verse was written? Discuss how this verse relates to other parts of the Bible?