Uphold me according unto thy word, that I may live: and let me not be ashamed of my hope.
Support me according to your promises, so that I may live; and don't let me be disappointed in my hope.
The writer is asking God to keep His promises and give him strength to live, while protecting him from the shame of having his hope in God prove empty.
📚 Historical Context
This verse comes from Psalm 119, the longest chapter in the Bible, which is an elaborate poem celebrating God's law and word. The psalmist was likely writing during a time of personal struggle or national crisis, possibly during the Babylonian exile when God's people questioned whether His promises would be fulfilled. The Hebrew concept of 'shame' here relates to public disgrace that would come if one's trust in God appeared foolish or misplaced.
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