Psalms 86:15 – “But you, Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
In Psalm 86:15, David shifts his focus from the troubles he faces to the character of God. He acknowledges that God is compassionate and gracious, showing kindness and mercy even when we don’t deserve it. The phrase “slow to anger” highlights God’s patience. He does not react hastily or out of frustration but instead extends grace. David also describes God as “abounding in love and faithfulness,” emphasizing that God’s love is not limited or conditional—it overflows abundantly and is deeply reliable.
This verse is a beautiful declaration of who God is. David finds comfort in God’s character because it is consistent and trustworthy. Even in the midst of difficulties, David knows that God’s love and faithfulness remain unchanged. This assurance allows him to face challenges with confidence, knowing that God is on his side.
Historical Context
David wrote Psalm 86 during a time of personal struggle. Throughout his life, he encountered various enemies, faced betrayals, and dealt with his own failures. In the verses leading up to this one, David cries out to God for help, describing the threats he faces from ruthless people. However, in verse 15, he turns from describing his problems to proclaiming the goodness of God.
The attributes of God that David lists here—compassion, grace, patience, love, and faithfulness—are deeply rooted in Israel’s history. These same qualities were revealed to Moses on Mount Sinai (Exodus 34:6) when God passed before him and proclaimed His name. For David and the people of Israel, these words were not just descriptions; they were a testament to the God who had faithfully walked with them through generations.
Theological Implications
This verse provides a clear picture of God’s character. It reminds us that God is not like us; He is not quick to anger or harsh in His judgment. Instead, He is compassionate, gracious, and patient. Theologically, this means that God’s dealings with humanity are marked by mercy rather than wrath. He longs to draw people to Himself, not to push them away.
The phrase “abounding in love and faithfulness” reveals God’s commitment to His people. God’s love is not just a feeling; it is an enduring commitment that is demonstrated through His actions. This faithfulness means that God is reliable, keeping His promises even when we fall short.
Literary Analysis
Psalm 86:15 is a poetic declaration that contrasts sharply with the preceding verses where David talks about the threats he faces. The structure of the verse uses a series of descriptive phrases to emphasize God’s attributes. Each phrase builds on the one before it, creating a picture of God’s nature that is both comforting and awe-inspiring.
David uses repetition for emphasis. The description of God here echoes words found in other parts of Scripture, especially in the Old Testament, where God’s character is repeatedly described using similar language. By using these familiar phrases, David connects his personal experience of God’s faithfulness to the broader story of God’s relationship with His people.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Exodus 34:6 – “And he passed in front of Moses, proclaiming, ‘The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness.'”
- Psalm 103:8 – “The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love.”
- Lamentations 3:22-23 – “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”
- 2 Peter 3:9 – “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead, he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”
These verses emphasize God’s consistent character of love, patience, and faithfulness throughout the Bible.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For believers today, Psalm 86:15 serves as a powerful reminder of God’s unchanging character. In a world where circumstances and people can be unpredictable, knowing that God is compassionate and faithful offers deep comfort. This verse invites us to trust that, no matter what we face, God’s love and faithfulness remain steady.
When life gets tough, it’s easy to think that God has forgotten us or is angry with us. But this verse reassures us that God is patient and gracious. He is not quick to give up on us, even when we stumble. For Christians, this is a call to lean on God’s character rather than our circumstances, finding peace in His never-ending love.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse beautifully reflects God’s heart for His people. The attributes listed—compassion, grace, patience, love, and faithfulness—are all expressions of God’s deep love. God’s love is not just an abstract concept; it is seen in His actions toward us. He is always ready to forgive, to show kindness, and to remain faithful to His promises.
God’s patience, described as being “slow to anger,” shows that He is willing to give us time to grow, learn, and return to Him when we have strayed. This reflects a God who is not harsh but is instead full of mercy, always looking for ways to draw us closer to Him.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the ultimate expression of God’s compassion, grace, and faithfulness. In the New Testament, we see these attributes fully revealed in the life and ministry of Jesus. He showed compassion to the sick, grace to the sinners, and patience with His disciples, who often struggled to understand His teachings.
Through Jesus’ sacrificial death on the cross, we see the greatest demonstration of God’s love. Romans 5:8 tells us, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Jesus embodied the love and faithfulness described in Psalm 86:15, providing a way for us to be reconciled to God. In Christ, we experience the fullness of God’s compassion and the assurance that His promises will never fail.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does knowing that God is “slow to anger” change the way you view your mistakes and failures?
- In what ways have you experienced God’s compassion and faithfulness in your life?
- How can you remind yourself of God’s unchanging character during difficult times?
- How does Jesus’ life and sacrifice reveal God’s love and patience toward us?
- What practical steps can you take to reflect God’s compassion and grace to others in your daily life?
These questions are intended to deepen your understanding of God’s character and inspire you to draw closer to Him, trusting in His great love and faithfulness. Let this verse encourage you to lean on God’s unchanging nature, especially when life feels uncertain.