Definition: He shall abide before God for ever: O prepare mercy and truth, [which] may preserve him.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down Psalm 61:7 – it's a really beautiful and profound verse. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse speaks about the importance of seeking God’s help and preparing for a future relationship with Him. It’s saying that God wants to be with us forever, and he desires to preserve us through this relationship. Let's unpack it word by word: “He shall abide before God…” – This means God will continue to be near and present with us. “Abide” suggests a closeness, a staying put, and a deep connection. “…for ever…” - This emphasizes the permanence of this relationship. It’s not just for a little while; it's about lasting forever. “O prepare mercy and truth…” – This is where it gets really significant. “Mercy” means forgiveness, compassion, and kindness. "Truth" refers to God’s word, His character, and the reality of things. The phrase “prepare” suggests that God is actively working to make this relationship secure and beneficial. “[which] may preserve him.” – This is the key part! “Preserve him” means to protect, safeguard, and keep someone safe. It implies a future benefit or blessing for us as a result of this relationship with God. Overall Meaning: The verse is essentially saying that God wants a lasting and secure relationship with us. He’s actively working to ensure our well-being and protection through His grace and wisdom. It's a plea for God to be present in our lives and to safeguard us. In simpler terms, it’s a promise of God’s love and protection that will continue throughout eternity. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the meaning within a specific context (like prayer)? Provide a little more detail about the historical or theological significance of this passage?