What is the meaning of Psalm 31:6?

I hate those who cling to worthless idols

“​I hate those who cling to worthless idols” (Psalm 31:6a)

• David expresses moral revulsion, not personal spite. He rejects the practice, loyalties, and worldview that elevate false gods above the true God (Psalm 97:10; Romans 12:9).

• The word “worthless” underscores the futility of idols—hand-made objects or ideas that cannot save (Isaiah 44:9–20; 1 Samuel 12:21).

• “Cling” pictures stubborn attachment. Idolatry is more than a casual mistake; it’s a deliberate grip on deception (Jeremiah 2:5, 13).

• Hating idolatry aligns the heart with God’s own hatred of false worship (Exodus 20:3–5). Healthy spiritual life includes decisive rejection of anything that competes with the Lord (1 John 5:21).

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but in the LORD I trust

“​but in the LORD I trust” (Psalm 31:6b)

• David contrasts two allegiances: idols versus the LORD (Yahweh), the covenant-keeping God (Deuteronomy 6:4–5; Joshua 24:15).

• Trust is personal dependence: resting in God’s character, promises, and power (Psalm 9:10; Proverbs 3:5–6).

• The shift from “they” to “I” highlights individual responsibility. Regardless of cultural trends, each believer must choose wholehearted reliance on the Lord (2 Kings 18:5–6; Hebrews 11:6).

• Trusting God brings protection and deliverance that idols can never provide (Psalm 115:4–11; Jonah 2:8–9).

• Confidence in the LORD fuels worship and joyful obedience (Psalm 31:7–8; Philippians 4:4–7).

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summary

David draws a clear line: he utterly rejects the empty security of idols and commits himself to the living God. True spiritual life involves both a decisive break with false worship and an active, personal trust in the LORD who alone is worthy.