Psalm 143:5
New International Version
I remember the days of long ago; I meditate on all your works and consider what your hands have done.

New Living Translation
I remember the days of old. I ponder all your great works and think about what you have done.

English Standard Version
I remember the days of old; I meditate on all that you have done; I ponder the work of your hands.

Berean Standard Bible
I remember the days of old; I meditate on all Your works; I consider the work of Your hands.

King James Bible
I remember the days of old; I meditate on all thy works; I muse on the work of thy hands.

New King James Version
I remember the days of old; I meditate on all Your works; I muse on the work of Your hands.

New American Standard Bible
I remember the days of old; I meditate on all Your accomplishments; I reflect on the work of Your hands.

NASB 1995
I remember the days of old; I meditate on all Your doings; I muse on the work of Your hands.

NASB 1977
I remember the days of old; I meditate on all Thy doings; I muse on the work of Thy hands.

Legacy Standard Bible
I remember the days of old; I meditate on all You have done; I muse on the work of Your hands.

Amplified Bible
I remember the days of old; I meditate on all that You have done; I ponder the work of Your hands.

Christian Standard Bible
I remember the days of old; I meditate on all you have done; I reflect on the work of your hands.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
I remember the days of old; I meditate on all You have done; I reflect on the work of Your hands.

American Standard Version
I remember the days of old; I meditate on all thy doings; I muse on the work of thy hands.

Contemporary English Version
I remember to think about the many things you did in years gone by.

English Revised Version
I remember the days of old; I meditate on all thy doings: I muse on the work of thy hands.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
I remember the days long ago. I reflect on all that you have done. I carefully consider what your hands have made.

Good News Translation
I remember the days gone by; I think about all that you have done, I bring to mind all your deeds.

International Standard Version
I remember the former times, meditating on everything you have done. I think about the work of your hands.

NET Bible
I recall the old days; I meditate on all you have done; I reflect on your accomplishments.

New Heart English Bible
I remember the days of old. I meditate on all your doings. I contemplate the work of your hands.

Webster's Bible Translation
I remember the days of old, I meditate on all thy works; I muse on the work of thy hands.
Majority Text Translations
Majority Standard Bible
I remember the days of old; I meditate on all Your works; I consider the work of Your hands.

World English Bible
I remember the days of old. I meditate on all your doings. I contemplate the work of your hands.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
I have remembered days of old, "" I have meditated on all Your acts, "" I muse on the work of Your hand.

Young's Literal Translation
I have remembered days of old, I have meditated on all Thine acts, On the work of Thy hand I muse.

Smith's Literal Translation
I remembered the days of old and I meditated in all thy work, and I will meditate upon the work of thy hands.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
I remembered the days of old, I meditated on all thy works: I meditated upon the works of thy hands.

Catholic Public Domain Version
I have called to mind the days of antiquity. I have been meditating on all your works. I have meditated on the workings of your hands.

New American Bible
I remember the days of old; I ponder all your deeds; the works of your hands I recall.

New Revised Standard Version
I remember the days of old, I think about all your deeds, I meditate on the works of your hands.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
I remember thee, O LORD, from days of old; I meditate on all thy works; I muse on the work of thy hands.

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
And I have remembered you, LORD JEHOVAH, from the first, and I have meditated on all your works and have meditated on the work of your hands.
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
I remember the days of old; I meditate on all Thy doing; I muse on the work of Thy hands.

Brenton Septuagint Translation
I remembered the days of old; and I meditated on all thy doings: yea, I meditated on the works of thine hands.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
I Stretch Out My Hands to You
4My spirit grows faint within me; my heart is dismayed inside me. 5I remember the days of old; I meditate on all Your works; I consider the work of Your hands. 6I stretch out my hands to You; my soul thirsts for You like a parched land. Selah…

Cross References
Psalm 77:11-12
I will remember the works of the LORD; yes, I will remember Your wonders of old. / I will reflect on all You have done and ponder Your mighty deeds.

Psalm 77:5-6
I considered the days of old, the years long in the past. / At night I remembered my song; in my heart I mused, and my spirit pondered:

Psalm 42:4
These things come to mind as I pour out my soul: how I walked with the multitude, leading the festive procession to the house of God with shouts of joy and praise.

Psalm 63:6
When I remember You on my bed, I think of You through the watches of the night.

Psalm 77:3
I remembered You, O God, and I groaned; I mused and my spirit grew faint. Selah

Psalm 105:5
Remember the wonders He has done, His marvels, and the judgments He has pronounced,

Psalm 119:55
In the night, O LORD, I remember Your name, that I may keep Your law.

Psalm 119:52
I remember Your judgments of old, O LORD, and in them I find comfort.

Psalm 145:5
the glorious splendor of Your majesty. And I will meditate on Your wondrous works.

Psalm 92:4-5
For You, O LORD, have made me glad by Your deeds; I sing for joy at the works of Your hands. / How great are Your works, O LORD, how deep are Your thoughts!

Isaiah 63:7
I will make known the LORD’s loving devotion and His praiseworthy acts, because of all that the LORD has done for us—the many good things for the house of Israel according to His great compassion and loving devotion.

Deuteronomy 32:7
Remember the days of old; consider the years long past. Ask your father, and he will tell you, your elders, and they will inform you.

Lamentations 3:20-21
Surely my soul remembers and is humbled within me. / Yet I call this to mind, and therefore I have hope:

1 Chronicles 16:12
Remember the wonders He has done, His marvels, and the judgments He has pronounced,

Job 36:24
Remember to magnify His work, which men have praised in song.


Treasury of Scripture

I remember the days of old; I meditate on all your works; I muse on the work of your hands.

remember

Psalm 42:6
O my God, my soul is cast down within me: therefore will I remember thee from the land of Jordan, and of the Hermonites, from the hill Mizar.

Psalm 77:5,6,10-12
I have considered the days of old, the years of ancient times…

Psalm 111:4
He hath made his wonderful works to be remembered: the LORD is gracious and full of compassion.

Jump to Previous
Acts Ago Consider Contemplate Doings Early Hand Hands Meditate Meditated Mind Muse Past Remember Remembered Thought Work Works Wrought
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Acts Ago Consider Contemplate Doings Early Hand Hands Meditate Meditated Mind Muse Past Remember Remembered Thought Work Works Wrought
Psalm 143
1. David prays for favor in judgment
3. He complains of his grief
5. He strengthens his faith by meditation and prayer
7. He prays for grace
9. For deliverance
10. For sanctification
12. For destruction of his enemies














I remember the days of old;
This phrase reflects a common biblical theme of recalling God's past faithfulness. In the Old Testament, remembering is often linked to the covenant relationship between God and His people. The psalmist's act of remembering serves as a spiritual discipline, encouraging trust in God's unchanging nature. Historically, the "days of old" could refer to the patriarchal period, the Exodus, or the establishment of Israel as a nation. This remembrance is not merely nostalgic but serves as a foundation for faith, as seen in Deuteronomy 32:7, where the Israelites are urged to remember the days of old to understand God's deeds and promises.

I meditate on all Your works;
Meditation in the biblical sense involves deep reflection and contemplation on God's actions and character. The psalmist's focus on "all Your works" suggests a comprehensive consideration of God's creation, providence, and redemptive acts. This practice aligns with Joshua 1:8, where meditation on God's law is encouraged for success and prosperity. The works of God include the wonders of creation, as seen in Psalm 19:1, and His mighty acts in history, such as the deliverance from Egypt. This meditation fosters a deeper understanding of God's sovereignty and faithfulness.

I consider the work of Your hands.
The "work of Your hands" emphasizes God's creative power and personal involvement in the world. This phrase can be connected to Genesis 1, where God is depicted as the Creator of the universe. It also resonates with Psalm 8:3, where the psalmist marvels at the heavens, the work of God's fingers. Theologically, this consideration leads to worship and awe, recognizing God's majesty and authority. In a broader sense, it points to God's ongoing work in the lives of His people, providing assurance of His care and purpose. This reflection on God's handiwork encourages believers to trust in His continued guidance and provision.

Persons / Places / Events
1. David
Traditionally attributed as the author of Psalm 143, David is expressing his reliance on God during a time of distress.

2. The Days of Old
Refers to the historical acts of God in the history of Israel, which David recalls to find comfort and strength.

3. God's Works
Encompasses the creation and the mighty acts God performed for His people, which David meditates upon.

4. The Work of God's Hands
This phrase highlights God's creative power and providence, reminding believers of His sovereignty.

5. Meditation
An act of deep reflection and contemplation, which is a spiritual discipline encouraged throughout Scripture.
Teaching Points
The Power of Remembrance
Reflecting on God's past faithfulness can strengthen our faith in present trials.

Meditation as a Spiritual Discipline
Regular meditation on God's works can deepen our relationship with Him and enhance our spiritual growth.

Recognizing God's Sovereignty
By considering the work of God's hands, we acknowledge His control and creativity in our lives and the world.

Encouragement in Trials
Remembering God's past deliverances can provide hope and encouragement during difficult times.

Developing a Grateful Heart
Reflecting on God's works fosters gratitude and worship, shifting our focus from our problems to His greatness.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1. What is the meaning of Psalm 143:5?

2. How can we "remember the days of old" in our daily lives?

3. What does it mean to "meditate on all Your works" today?

4. How does Psalm 143:5 connect with Philippians 4:8 on thought life?

5. In what ways can reflecting on God's works strengthen our faith?

6. How can recalling God's past deeds help us in current challenges?

7. How does Psalm 143:5 encourage reflection on God's past works in our lives?

8. What historical context influenced the writing of Psalm 143:5?

9. How does Psalm 143:5 challenge modern views on remembering God's deeds?

10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Psalm 143?

11. Psalm 143:5 references God’s works of old; can we find verifiable historical records or artifacts to support these events?

12. How does meditation deepen your understanding of God's word?

13. What does the Bible say about confession and forgiveness?

14. If Psalm 143:1 depicts urgent pleas for divine intervention, why does an all-powerful God seem to delay or remain silent in times of distress?
What Does Psalm 143:5 Mean
I remember the days of old

David looks back, intentionally replaying God’s faithfulness. This recollection is more than nostalgia; it is an act of worship that fuels present trust.

Deuteronomy 32:7 declares, “Remember the days of old; consider the years long past,” encouraging every generation to anchor hope in God’s proven record.

Psalm 77:11 echoes, “I will remember the works of the LORD; yes, I will remember Your wonders of old,” showing that reflection on past deliverances steadies the soul in current distress.

• Personal memory is also in view—David could recall the lion and the bear (1 Samuel 17:37) or God’s covenant promises (2 Samuel 7:8–9).

Remembering corrects the fear-filled narrative our circumstances try to write. If God has never failed before, He will not start now.


I meditate on all Your works

The verb “meditate” pictures a slow, deliberate turning over of truth—letting it sink from mind to heart.

Psalm 111:2 states, “Great are the works of the LORD; they are pondered by all who delight in them,” linking delight with focused thought.

Joshua 1:8 and Psalm 1:2 both portray meditation as a day-and-night rhythm that prospers the believer.

• Examples of God’s works worth meditating on:

– Creation’s order and beauty (Genesis 1; Psalm 104).

– Israel’s salvation history—Exodus, conquest, covenant preservation.

– Personal testimonies of answered prayer and guidance.

Such meditation re-aligns the heart with who God is and what He does, pushing back doubt and despair.


I consider the work of Your hands

To “consider” moves from internal reflection to outward observation; David surveys tangible evidence of God’s craftsmanship.

Psalm 8:3-4 marvels, “When I behold Your heavens, the work of Your fingers… what is man that You are mindful of him?” Creation itself preaches God’s power and care.

Job 37:14 urges, “Stand still and consider the wonders of God,” reminding us that hurry blurs vision.

Isaiah 64:8 portrays God as potter: “We are the clay, and You are our potter; we are all the work of Your hand.” Even our own lives bear His fingerprints.

Ephesians 2:10 affirms that believers are “God’s workmanship,” proof that His hands are active in redemption as well as creation.

Noticing God’s handiwork turns abstract theology into concrete confidence; every sunrise, every transformed life, every fulfilled promise is a visible signature of the Creator.


summary

Psalm 143:5 calls the believer to a three-fold practice: remember God’s past faithfulness, meditate on His comprehensive works, and actively observe His ongoing craftsmanship. Together these actions shift focus from present trouble to eternal truth, strengthening faith and renewing hope.

(5) See Psalm 77:5-6.

Verse 5. - I remember the days of old. Still, in the midst of all my troubles, I do not despair - "I remember the days of old" - the great things which God has done for me in the past (comp. Psalm 77:5, 10, 11). I meditate on all thy works; or, "on all thy doings." I muse on the work of thy hands (comp. Psalm 77:12).

Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
I remember
זָ֘כַ֤רְתִּי (zā·ḵar·tî)
Verb - Qal - Perfect - first person common singular
Strong's 2142: To mark, to remember, to mention, to be male

the days
יָמִ֨ים ׀ (yā·mîm)
Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 3117: A day

of old;
מִקֶּ֗דֶם (miq·qe·ḏem)
Preposition-m | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 6924: The front, of place, time

I meditate
הָגִ֥יתִי (hā·ḡî·ṯî)
Verb - Qal - Perfect - first person common singular
Strong's 1897: To moan, growl, utter, speak, muse

on all
בְכָל־ (ḇə·ḵāl-)
Preposition-b | Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 3605: The whole, all, any, every

Your works;
פָּעֳלֶ֑ךָ (pā·‘o·le·ḵā)
Noun - masculine singular construct | second person masculine singular
Strong's 6467: Doing, deed, work

I consider
אֲשׂוֹחֵֽחַ׃ (’ă·śō·w·ḥê·aḥ)
Verb - Piel - Imperfect - first person common singular
Strong's 7878: To muse, complain, talk (of)

the work
בְּֽמַעֲשֵׂ֖ה (bə·ma·‘ă·śêh)
Preposition-b | Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 4639: An action, a transaction, activity, a product, property

of Your hands.
יָדֶ֣יךָ (yā·ḏe·ḵā)
Noun - fdc | second person masculine singular
Strong's 3027: A hand


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OT Poetry: Psalm 143:5 I remember the days of old (Psalm Ps Psa.)
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