Psalm 69:6 & Jesus: Stumbling block link?
How does Psalm 69:6 connect with Jesus' teachings on being a stumbling block?

Psalm 69:6 in Focus

“May those who hope in You not be put to shame through me, O Lord GOD of Hosts; may those who seek You not be disgraced because of me, O God of Israel.”


What David Is Praying

• David fears that his own failures or sufferings might dishearten fellow believers.

• He asks God to keep his life from becoming a cause of “shame” or “disgrace” for others who trust the Lord.

• The heart of the request: “Don’t let my actions—or even my hardships—turn anyone away from You.”


Jesus’ Direct Teaching on Stumbling Blocks

Matthew 18:6 – “But if anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to stumble, it would be better for him to have a large millstone hung around his neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea.”

Matthew 18:7 – “Woe to the world for the causes of sin. These stumbling blocks must come, but woe to the man through whom they come!”

Luke 17:1-2 and Mark 9:42 echo the same warning.

Key points Jesus highlights:

– “Little ones” refers to all believers, especially the vulnerable.

– Causing spiritual harm invites severe accountability.

– Disciples must guard their conduct so others are not driven into sin or doubt.


Connecting Psalm 69:6 to Jesus’ Warning

• Shared concern: Both David and Jesus address the danger of believers being tripped up by someone else’s life.

• David’s prayer (“may they not be put to shame through me”) is the Old Testament counterpart to Jesus’ explicit command (“do not cause them to stumble”).

Psalm 69 is broadly Messianic (vv. 4, 9, 21 are applied to Christ in John 2:17; 15:25; 19:28-30). Verse 6 therefore foreshadows the Messiah’s own protective love for God’s people.

• Jesus embodies David’s prayer: though He endured scorn (Psalm 69:7-9), His flawless obedience ensured no believer would be ashamed because of Him; instead, He became the sure foundation (Isaiah 28:16; Romans 10:11).


Practical Takeaways for Today

• Examine speech and behavior: could anything we do weaken another’s faith? (Romans 14:13)

• Model endurance in trial: when hardship strikes, let steadfast trust point others to God, not away from Him.

• Pursue holiness for others’ sake, not just our own (1 Corinthians 10:31-33).

• Remember the severe view Jesus takes of stumbling blocks—motivation to walk carefully and lovingly.

What does Psalm 69:6 teach about the impact of our actions on others?
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