Here’s how can know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior and be sure heaven is your eternal home. Click the link to read my personal story of accepting Jesus –My Story.
Disclosure: I am an Amazon affiliate. If you purchase using the links in the article I receive a small commission.
Books: Click on BOOKS to see some of the books I’ve written or where I’ve been a contributor.
“Let thy mercy, O Lord, be upon us, according as we hope in thee.”
Psalm 33:22 (KJV)
My Story:
At twenty-three years old, I became a Christian. Since then, I have believed in the power of prayer and know that God is always listening. However, in my early forties, as I faced one challenge after another, I felt overwhelmed and discouraged. My career was struggling, and after a career change, I was struggling to make ends meet. I was losing hope, and for the only time in my life, felt like giving up.
One day, as I was reading the Bible, I came across Psalm 33:22, which says, “May your unfailing love be with us, Lord, even as we put our hope in you.” Something about those words spoke to my soul. I realized I my focus was on my problems that I had forgotten to put my hope in God. The words echoed in my head over and over that day “Lord, even as we put our hope in you.” I needed to put my hope in the Lord.
From that day on, I prayed, trusting in God’s plan for my life. I saw small blessings.
One example is a gift of money to pay my mortgage payment on time.
Another is a veterans benefit. It allowed me to retrain for a high paying information technology job. I realized God was with me every step of the way.
As I continued to put my hope in the Lord, I experienced a newfound sense of joy and peace. I no longer felt overwhelmed by my circumstances because I knew God was in control. I looked for opportunities to help others and spread love and kindness wherever I went.
In the end, I turned my hobby into my career. I earned more money than I ever dreamed of, and I stayed current on my debts, provided financial stability for my wife and children.
My hope and faith in the Lord would carry me through any challenge that lay ahead.
Who wrote Psalm 33:22 and when was it written?
We do not attribute the authorship of this psalm to any specific individual. Many believe that King David wrote it, as we give him credit for writing many of the psalms.
Nobody knows the exact date when somebody wrote Psalm 33, as the Book of Psalms contains prayers and songs collected over a period of centuries. Scholars believe the psalm’s writing occurred during the time of the Kingdom of Israel, which was ruled by King David and his successors from around 1000 BC to 586 BC.
What is the context of Psalm 33:22?
Psalm 33 is a psalm of praise and thanksgiving to God for his power, sovereignty, and faithfulness. The psalm begins with an exhortation to sing joyfully to the Lord and play skillfully on musical instruments, acknowledging that the word of the Lord is right and true, and that all his works were done in faithfulness.
Psalm 33:22 is the concluding verse of the psalm and it reads: “May your unfailing love be with us, Lord, even as we put our hope in you.” This verse is a prayer of trust and dependence on God’s steadfast love and faithfulness, asking for his ongoing presence and protection. It is a reminder that despite the challenges and uncertainties of life, we can rely on God’s unwavering love and place our hope in him.
What is the meaning of Psalm 33:22?
Psalm 33:22 says, “May your unfailing love be with us, Lord, even as we put our hope in you.” This verse is a prayer for God’s continued presence and love in the lives of those who trust in Him.
The verse begins with the phrase, “May your unfailing love be with us, Lord.” “Unfailing” emphasizes God’s love is constant and dependable. Here the psalmist is asking for God’s love to be present with them always, showing a desire for a close and personal relationship with God.
“Even as we put our hope in you,” the second part says. This phrase recognizes that the psalmist’s hope is in God alone. They trust God will provide for them, protect them, and guide them through life. By putting their hope in God, the psalmist is expressing their confidence in God’s faithfulness and goodness.
Overall, Psalm 33:22 is a prayer of trust and dependence on God’s love and faithfulness. The verse acknowledges that God’s love is unfailing and that the psalmist’s hope is in God alone.
What does “May your unfailing love be with us, Lord,” mean?
The phrase “May your unfailing love be with us, Lord” is from Psalm 33:22 in the Bible. This verse is part of a larger psalm that celebrates God’s power and goodness as Creator and Redeemer. The psalmist is expressing trust in God’s love and protection, and asking for it to be with them.
In particular, the phrase “unfailing love” is a translation of the Hebrew word “chesed,” which is a term that carries a rich and complex meaning. We can translate it as “steadfast love,” “loyal love,” or “mercy.” They often used this word in the Hebrew Bible to describe God’s love for His people, which is faithful and unchanging even in the face of their sins and failures.
So, when the psalmist says, “May your unfailing love be with us, Lord,” they are expressing a desire for God’s enduring love and faithfulness to be present with them. This is a prayer of dependence and trust in God’s goodness, and recognizes the need for His help and guidance in all aspects of life.
What does “Lord, even as we put our hope in you,” mean?
Psalm 33:22 is a verse from the Bible which reads, “May your unfailing love be with us, Lord, even as we put our hope in you.” This verse expresses a prayer of trust and faith in God’s love and protection.
The phrase “even as we put our hope in you” is a statement of faith and trust in God. It acknowledges that the Psalmist is placing his hope and confidence in God’s love and protection, even in difficult and uncertain times. This phrase also implies that our hope is not in anything else but in God alone.
The Psalmist is asking God to let His unfailing love be with us as we trust in Him. God’s love, which is unchanging and eternal, roots our hope in Him.
In summary, the phrase “Lord, even as we put our hope in you” expresses the Psalmist’s trust and confidence in God’s love and protection, and his acknowledgement that our hope is firmly placed in God alone.
What is the difference in biblical translations of Psalm 33:22 (KJV, NIV & ESV)
Psalm 33:22 KJV biblical translation says:
Let thy mercy, O Lord, be upon us, according as we hope in thee.
Psalm 33:22 KJV
Psalm 33:22 NIV biblical translation says:
May your unfailing love be with us, Lord, even as we put our hope in you.
Psalm 33:22 NIV
Psalm 33:22 ESV biblical translation says:
Let your steadfast love, O Lord, be upon us, even as we hope in you.
Psalm 33:22 ESV
How does Psalm 33:22 give encouragement?
The verse reminds us that God’s love is unfailing, so it is never-ending and unconditional. This can encourage, especially during difficult times when we may feel like we are alone or that God has abandoned us. The verse encourages us to trust in God’s love, knowing that He is always with us and cares for us.
The verse also encourages us to put our hope in God. When we put our hope in Him, we are placing our trust in His promises and His faithfulness. This can encourage when we are facing challenges or uncertainties in life, knowing that God is in control and has a plan for our lives.
The verse is a prayer that asks God to be with us and to show us His unfailing love. This can be comforting, especially when we are feeling overwhelmed or anxious. When we pray, we can experience a sense of peace and comfort, knowing that God is listening and cares about our concerns.
Overall, Psalm 33:22 can be a source of encouragement because it reminds us of God’s unfailing love, encourages us to put our hope in Him, and offers comfort through prayer.
How can I apply Psalm 33:22 to my life?
Psalm 33:22 says, “May your unfailing love be with us, Lord, even as we put our hope in you.” This verse reminds us that God’s love for us is unfailing, and we can trust in Him to guide us through our lives. Here are some ways you can apply this verse to your life:
Trust in God’s love: Remind yourself that God’s love for you is unfailing, and that He will always be with you no matter what you face in life. This can help you find peace and comfort in difficult times.
Put your hope in God: Instead of relying on your own strength and abilities, put your hope in God and trust that He will guide you to where you need to be. This can help you find direction and purpose in your life.
Pray for God’s love: Ask God to fill your heart with His unfailing love, and to help you recognize and appreciate it in your daily life. This can help you cultivate a deeper relationship with Him.
Show love to others: As you experience God’s unfailing love in your life, share that love with others by showing kindness, compassion, and forgiveness. This can help you spread God’s love to those around you.
Overall, Psalm 33:22 can be a reminder to trust in God’s love and to put our hope in Him, which can bring peace and purpose to our lives.
A model or example prayer using Psalm 33:22
Dear God,
I come before you today with a humble heart and a spirit of thankfulness. You are the creator of all things, and I am grateful for your loving presence in my life. Your word says in Psalm 33:22, “May your unfailing love be with us, Lord, even as we put our hope in you.” Lord, I put my hope in you today, knowing that your love never fails.
I pray you would pour out your love upon me and my loved ones. May we feel your presence in our lives, and may your love fill us up and overflow into the lives of those around us. Help us put our trust in you and to lean on your strength in times of trouble. May we find comfort and peace in your unfailing love.
Lord, I pray you would guide us and direct our paths. May your wisdom and understanding be our compass as we navigate the challenges of life. Help us make wise decisions and to follow the path that leads to your perfect will for our lives.
Lord, I pray you would bless us with joy and happiness. May we find joy in the simple things of life and in the relationships that you have given us? Help us spread your love and joy to those around us, so that others may also experience the goodness of your love.
Thank you, Lord, for your unfailing love. May we always put our hope in you and trust in your goodness.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen.
Conclusion:
God’s unfailing love is always with us.
Sometimes we cannot recognize or accept His love.
Exercising the hope that we have in Christ by accepting through acknowledgment helps us experience His hope.
Today’s article is from the forthcoming book: “Hope: How to Have Hope During Times of Hardship | The Bible Speaks to Life Issues, Book Three” by Jimmie Aaron Kepler, Ed.D. from Poetry and Prayer Press (c) 2023
How to Become a Christian
Here’s how can know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior and be sure heaven is your eternal home. Click the link to read my personal story of accepting Jesus –My Story.
Disclosure: I am an Amazon affiliate. If you purchase using the links in the article I receive a small commission.
Books: Click on BOOKS to see some of the books I’ve written or where I’ve been a contributor.
Here’s how can know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior and be sure heaven is your eternal home. Click the link to read my personal story of accepting Jesus –My Story.
Disclosure: I am an Amazon affiliate. If you purchase using the links in the article I receive a small commission.
Books: Click on BOOKS to see some of the books I’ve written or where I’ve been a contributor.
Here’s how can know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior and be sure heaven is your eternal home. Click the link to read my personal story of accepting Jesus –My Story.
Disclosure: I am an Amazon affiliate. If you purchase using the links in the article I receive a small commission.
Here’s how can know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior and be sure heaven is your eternal home. Click the link to read my personal story of accepting Jesus –My Story.
Disclosure: I am an Amazon affiliate. If you purchase using the links in the article I receive a small commission.
Books: Click on BOOKS to see some of the books I’ve written or where I’ve been a contributor.
Do you know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord? If you died tonight, would you go to heaven?
Here’s how can know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior and be sure heaven is your eternal home. Click the link to read my personal story of accepting Jesus – Jimmie’s Story.
Did you know being good doesn’t get you to heaven. Being “saved” does.
Here’s my story of “being saved.”
On July 11, 1977, my life changed. If you look up that date in history, you will find nothing historically significant happened on that Sunday. It was a noteworthy day to me. That day was the watershed event in my life.
July 1977 found me on active duty as a second lieutenant in the United States Army. I was serving as Battalion Maintenance Officer, 2nd Battalion, 47th Infantry, 3rd Brigade, 9th Infantry Division at Fort Lewis, Washington.
Life was good.
Life was good. I had a beautiful, intelligent wife. I had a new son born in January that same year. I had just gotten a commendable rating during an annual general inspection in maintenance. It was the first commendable rating since the division had returned from Vietnam. Named an Outstanding Junior Officer of the Ninth Infantry Division because of the commendable rating, I received an offer of a regular army commission. My career was going great.
I always tried being the best I could be, and doing what was right. I was a detail-oriented perfectionist, high-achieving, and a workaholic. I excelled at most things I did. However, after all of this, I still had an empty, unsatisfied, void, and alone feeling. Beginning in my college years I tried drinking adult beverages, women, materialism, partying, and hanging-out with the right crowd to fill this unexplained need I had. I knew something was missing from my life.
I was also attending church. At my church I noticed a group of men my age that seemed to have what I was missing. I attended a Bible study with them. Here I found that God has given us an important manual for life — the Bible. He has the answers to the problems and emptiness we may face. I found out I was here for a purpose, and not by accident. I learned Jesus loves me, and desires to have a personal relationship with me. However, sin separated me from Him.
I realized I had a sin problem.
The Bible says, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” – Romans 3:23 But no one is perfect! Not even a perfectionist. We have all sinned and therefore cannot save ourselves by simply living a good life. Why?
I learned there was a penalty to be paid for my sin.
The Bible says, “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” – Romans 6:23
I learned God gives us a promise.
The Bible says, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him shall not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16.
I learned that God made provision for me.
The Bible says, “If you confess with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved. – Romans 10:9-10
I prayed to accept the gift of eternal life through Jesus.
I prayed, “Jesus, I know that I am a sinner. I believe that You died for my sins and rose from the grave so that I might have eternal life in Heaven with You. I willingly repent of my sins and ask you to come into my heart and life. Take control of my words, thoughts, and actions. I place all of my trust in You for my salvation. I accept You as my Lord and Savior, and this free gift of eternal life. Amen.”
What came next?
Since then my life has not been perfect. It’s been far from it. I have messed up from time to time, sometimes failing miserably in my decisions and choices. However, I have had direction and purpose in my life. I know where I am headed. I have the Bible to give me the principles for daily living. I am never alone. I have had real peace for the last 44 years.
How about you?
Have you ever been “saved”? You can do like I did. Romans 10:9-10, 13 tells us, “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. … For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.”
July is the birthday of America. July is also my spiritual birthday.
What’s that? You don’t know about spiritual birthdays? My physical birthday is the day I was born. It was November 25 at Brooke Army General Hospital in San Antonio, Texas.
My spiritual birthday is when I was “born again”. It is when I accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior. It is when I was “saved”. It was July 11, 1977 at the First Baptist Church of Lakewood in Tacoma, Washington.
Being Good Doesn’t Get You To Heaven
Did you know being good doesn’t get you to heaven. Being “saved” does.
Here’s my story of “being saved.”
On July 11, 1977, my life changed. If you look up that date in history, you will find nothing historically significant happened on that Sunday. It was a noteworthy day to me. That day was the watershed event in my life.
July 1977 found me on active duty as a second lieutenant in the United States Army. I was serving as Battalion Maintenance Officer, 2nd Battalion, 47th Infantry, 3rd Brigade, 9th Infantry Division at Fort Lewis, Washington.
Life was good.
Life was good. I had a beautiful, intelligent wife. I had a new son born in January that same year. I had just gotten a commendable rating during an annual general inspection in maintenance. It was the first commendable rating since the division had returned from Vietnam. Named an Outstanding Junior Officer of the Ninth Infantry Division because of the commendable rating, I received an offer of a regular army commission. My career was going great.
I always tried being the best I could be, and doing what was right. I was a detail-oriented perfectionist, high-achieving, and a workaholic. I excelled at most things I did. However, after all of this, I still had an empty, unsatisfied, void, and alone feeling. Beginning in my college years I tried drinking adult beverages, women, materialism, partying, and hanging-out with the right crowd to fill this unexplained need I had. I knew something was missing from my life.
I was also attending church. At my church I noticed a group of men my age that seemed to have what I was missing. I attended a Bible study with them. Here I found that God has given us an important manual for life — the Bible. He has the answers to the problems and emptiness we may face. I found out I was here for a purpose, and not by accident. I learned Jesus loves me, and desires to have a personal relationship with me. However, sin separated me from Him.
I realized I had a sin problem.
The Bible says, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” – Romans 3:23 But no one is perfect! Not even a perfectionist. We have all sinned and therefore cannot save ourselves by simply living a good life. Why?
I learned there was a penalty to be paid for my sin.
The Bible says, “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” – Romans 6:23
I learned God gives us a promise.
The Bible says, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him shall not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16.
I learned that God made provision for me.
The Bible says, “If you confess with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved. – Romans 10:9-10
I prayed to accept the gift of eternal life through Jesus.
I prayed, “Jesus, I know that I am a sinner. I believe that You died for my sins and rose from the grave so that I might have eternal life in Heaven with You. I willingly repent of my sins and ask you to come into my heart and life. Take control of my words, thoughts, and actions. I place all of my trust in You for my salvation. I accept You as my Lord and Savior, and this free gift of eternal life. Amen.”
What came next?
Since then my life has not been perfect. It’s been far from it. I have messed up from time to time, sometimes failing miserably in my decisions and choices. However, I have had direction and purpose in my life. I know where I am headed. I have the Bible to give me the principles for daily living. I am never alone. I have had real peace for the last 44 years.
How about you?
Have you ever been “saved”? You can do like I did. Romans 10:9-10, 13 tells us, “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. … For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.”
Can an intelligent person or intellectual/scholar believe in God? Can an intelligent person believe in Jesus Christ and Christianity?
The Real Question –– The answer to the above question(s) is, “Yes, of course! We cannot deny that many intelligent people do believe in God and Christianity.” So a better question may be, “How can an intelligent person believe in Christianity?” or “Why would an intelligent person believe in Christianity?”
About the photo: It was taken in February 1977 in my military quarters at Fort Lewis, Washington. In the photo is Miss Benita, my bride. We have been married since 1974. Also in the picture is our first child, Kristopher. Yes, I look tired. I had just returned home from a fourteen day training exercise. I had not had sleep in over 72 hours at the time the picture was taken. I was very tired. The picture was taken by my late father-in-law William Clarence Breeding, Sr. He and my mother-in-law had came to Washington State to help Miss Benita with our new son Kris. Kris is now in his mid 40s. My beautiful wife passed away from cancer in 2018. We were blessed with two other children. My father-in-law went to heaven in 1995. My mother-in-law joined him in heaven 11 years later.