Psalm 115:14

May the LORD give you increase, both you and your children.

Study Bible

May the LORD give you increase
This phrase reflects a common biblical theme of divine blessing and prosperity. The concept of increase is often associated with God's covenant promises, as seen in Genesis 12:2, where God promises to make Abraham a great nation. The increase is not merely material but encompasses spiritual growth and influence. In the context of ancient Israel, increase often meant agricultural abundance, reflecting God's provision in a land-dependent society. This blessing is a reminder of God's sovereignty and His ability to provide for His people, as seen in Deuteronomy 28:1-14, where obedience to God results in blessings.

both you
The personal nature of this blessing emphasizes God's intimate involvement with His people. It is directed to the individual, highlighting the personal relationship between God and each believer. This reflects the biblical principle that God knows and cares for each person individually, as seen in Psalm 139:1-4. The use of "you" underscores the direct and personal nature of God's promises and blessings, which are not just for the community but for each person within it.

and your children
This phrase extends the blessing to future generations, emphasizing the biblical theme of generational faithfulness and covenant continuity. The promise to bless one's descendants is a recurring theme in Scripture, as seen in Genesis 17:7, where God establishes His covenant with Abraham and his offspring. This reflects the cultural importance of family and lineage in ancient Israel, where one's legacy and name were carried on through descendants. It also points to the responsibility of parents to teach their children about God, as instructed in Deuteronomy 6:6-7. The inclusion of children in the blessing underscores the enduring nature of God's promises and His faithfulness to all generations.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal presence and faithfulness to His people.

2. The Psalmist
The author of Psalm 115, traditionally attributed to David or another Israelite leader, who is expressing a prayer or blessing for the people.

3. The Israelites
The original audience of the Psalm, God's chosen people, who are recipients of the blessing.

4. Children
The descendants of the Israelites, highlighting the generational aspect of God's blessings.

5. The Temple in Jerusalem
While not directly mentioned in this verse, the context of the Psalm suggests a setting of worship and blessing associated with the Temple.

Teaching Points

God's Desire for Our Growth
God desires to bless and increase His people, not just materially but spiritually and relationally. This reflects His nature as a loving Father who cares for His children.

Generational Blessings
The verse emphasizes the importance of thinking beyond ourselves to the impact of our faith and actions on future generations. We are called to invest in the spiritual growth of our children and community.

Faithfulness and Obedience
While God's blessings are gracious, they often accompany a life of faithfulness and obedience. We are encouraged to live in a way that aligns with God's will to experience His full blessings.

Spiritual and Material Increase
The increase mentioned can be both spiritual and material. We should seek God's wisdom to steward any increase for His glory and the benefit of others.

Prayer for Increase
This verse can be a model for our prayers, asking God to bless and increase us in ways that align with His purposes and kingdom.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God's covenant name, Yahweh, enhance our trust in His promise of increase?

2. In what ways can we actively contribute to the spiritual growth of our children and future generations?

3. How do the promises of increase in the Old Testament relate to the spiritual growth described in the New Testament?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure that any increase we receive is used for God's glory?

5. How can we incorporate prayers for increase into our daily spiritual practices, and what should be the focus of these prayers?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 17
God's promise to Abraham about multiplying his descendants connects to the theme of increase and blessing.

Deuteronomy 7
God's covenant faithfulness and blessings upon obedience are echoed in the promise of increase.

Proverbs 13
The idea of generational blessings and the righteous leaving an inheritance for their children.

Acts 2
The promise of the Holy Spirit and the growth of the early church as a form of spiritual increase.

Ephesians 3
Paul's prayer for spiritual growth and strength, paralleling the idea of increase in spiritual maturity.