What is the meaning of Psalm 34:17?

The righteous cry out

• “The righteous” are those who belong to God—people made right with Him by faith and marked by obedience (Psalm 1:6; Romans 3:22).

• David assumes they will “cry out,” because life brings moments too heavy to carry alone (Psalm 34:6; Psalm 55:17).

• Their cry is not a complaint into the void but a child’s plea to a loving Father (Matthew 7:11), expressing trust that only He can intervene.

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and the LORD hears

• Scripture insists that God’s ear is tuned to His own: “The eyes of the LORD are on the righteous, and His ears are inclined to their cry” (Psalm 34:15; echoed in 1 Peter 3:12).

• Hearing in biblical thought is active—He notices, understands, and responds (Exodus 3:7; Psalm 18:6).

• Because His character is steadfast love, He cannot ignore the cries of His children (Lamentations 3:22-23). That certainty fuels bold, honest prayer (Hebrews 4:16).

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He delivers them

• “Delivers” speaks of rescue, not merely comfort. Think of Israel at the Red Sea: “The LORD will fight for you” (Exodus 14:13-14).

• God’s saving action may be:

– Immediate relief (2 Chronicles 20:17)

– Strength to endure while He works (2 Corinthians 12:9)

– Final vindication in eternity (2 Timothy 4:18)

• Whatever form it takes, deliverance showcases His power and faithfulness (Psalm 40:1-3).

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from all their troubles

• “All” is comprehensive; nothing escapes His authority (Psalm 34:19 says, “Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the LORD delivers him out of them all”).

• Troubles may include:

– Physical dangers (Daniel 6:22)

– Emotional turmoil (Psalm 42:11)

– Spiritual battles (Ephesians 6:12-13)

• Sometimes He removes the trouble; other times He walks with us through it (Isaiah 43:2; John 16:33). Either way, every hardship is ultimately swallowed up by His redeeming purpose (Romans 8:28).

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summary

Psalm 34:17 assures believers that when they voice their need, God listens and acts. His attentive ear, mighty hand, and comprehensive care mean no distress is beyond His reach. The verse invites continual, confident prayer and unwavering trust that the Lord will rescue, sustain, and ultimately triumph on behalf of all who are His.