What is the meaning of Psalm 31:17?

O LORD

• David addresses Yahweh personally, acknowledging the covenant name God revealed in Exodus 3:14.

• This intimate appeal mirrors the trust expressed in Psalm 18:2, “The LORD is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer.”

• By calling God “LORD,” David confesses God’s sovereignty over every threat and vindication.

---

let me not be ashamed

• “Ashamed” points to public disgrace or defeat (see Psalm 25:2). David asks God to guard his reputation as His faithful servant.

• Isaiah 49:23 promises, “Those who hope in Me will not be put to shame,” showing that trust in God never ends in humiliation.

• The request assumes that God alone determines final honor or shame (Romans 10:11 echoes this truth in the New Testament).

---

for I have called on You

• David gives the reason for his plea: he has relied on God, not on human schemes.

• Psalm 50:15 commands, “Call upon Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you,” and David obeys that command.

• The act of calling strengthens assurance; 1 Peter 5:7 urges believers to cast every anxiety on the Lord because He cares.

---

Let the wicked be put to shame

• A righteous reversal: the disgrace aimed at God’s servant returns upon the wicked (Psalm 35:4).

• Proverbs 3:34 states, “He mocks the mockers,” showing God actively humbles the proud.

• This petition upholds divine justice: those who reject God’s ways will face open shame, while the faithful stand vindicated.

---

let them lie silent in Sheol

• “Sheol” refers to the realm of the dead; silence indicates total defeat and the end of their boasting (Psalm 94:17).

• Psalm 115:17 notes, “It is not the dead who praise the LORD,” underscoring that the wicked forfeit the joy of worship.

• Revelation 20:14 images the final state when death and Hades are cast into the lake of fire, confirming the literal destiny of the unrepentant.

---

summary

David confidently entrusts his honor to the LORD, knowing that those who call on Him will never suffer lasting shame. He asks God to reverse the threat: instead of the righteous being disgraced, the wicked will face humiliation and ultimate silence in death. The verse reinforces an unshakable biblical truth—God vindicates His people while justly judging those who oppose Him.