What does "the LORD hears the needy" reveal about God's character?

Setting the Scene

Psalm 69:33: “For the LORD listens to the needy and does not despise His captive people.”

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Why the Word “Hears” Matters

• Literal, not figurative—God actually listens.

• Grammatically present-tense—He is doing it right now, not merely in the past.

• Personal—“the LORD” (YHWH) takes the initiative; the needy are not required to earn His attention.

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What This Phrase Reveals about God’s Character

• Attentive Listener

– He is never distracted; every cry is registered (Psalm 34:6).

• Compassionate Father

– Pity and deep feeling move Him to act (Psalm 72:12-13).

• Impartial Judge

– Status does not sway Him; poverty does not diminish worth (Isaiah 41:17).

• Faithful Covenant-Keeper

– He consistently upholds promises made to His people (Exodus 3:7).

• Active Rescuer

– Hearing leads to saving intervention (Luke 4:18; James 5:4).

• Honor-Bestower

– “Does not despise” means He esteems what society overlooks, conferring dignity on the lowly (1 Samuel 2:8).

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Supporting Snapshots from Scripture

• Exodus 3:7—“I have surely seen the affliction of My people… and I have heard their cry.”

• Psalm 34:17—“The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears; He delivers them from all their troubles.”

• Isaiah 58:9—“Then you will call, and the LORD will answer; you will cry for help, and He will say, ‘Here I am.’”

• Luke 18:7—“Will not God bring about justice for His elect who cry out to Him day and night?”

• 1 Peter 5:7—“Cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you.”

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Living Out the Truth Today

• Pray with confidence—He is listening, literally.

• Value every person—imitate His refusal to despise the needy.

• Expect real intervention—anticipate rescue in His timing.

• Rest in His faithfulness—what He has done for the needy before, He will still do now.