Psalms 37:4
Delight thyself also in the LORD: and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.Psalms 37:4
What does Psalms 37:4 mean?
David encourages delighting in the LORD, with the promise that God will give the desires of one's heart. Read in context, this isn't a formula for getting whatever you want — it's connected to a heart so shaped by delighting in God that its desires align with His.
Context
Psalm 37 as a whole addresses the temptation to envy the apparent success of the wicked (v.1) and instead calls for trust in the LORD, patience, and doing good (vv.1-9). Verse 4 sits within this broader teaching about contentment and trust, not as a standalone promise about getting personal wishes granted.
Key themes
Related Bible verses
Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.
Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
Bible study
- How does the wider context of Psalm 37 (not envying the wicked, vv.1-2) shape how you read verse 4?
- What does it mean that delighting in God shapes your desires, rather than just earning you whatever you want?
- What would it look like to genuinely 'delight' in God, not just obey Him out of duty?
Prayer
A short devotional prayer inspired by this verse — not scripture
LORD, teach me to delight in You — not just to ask You for things, but to find real joy in who You are. Shape my desires to match Yours. Amen.
Memorize this verse
Delight thyself also in the LORD: and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.
Share this verse
Frequently asked questions
Does Psalm 37:4 mean God will give me anything I want if I delight in Him?
Read in context, the psalm is about trusting God rather than envying the wicked's apparent success — delighting in God shapes and aligns desires with His will, rather than functioning as a formula for getting anything wished for.
What is Psalm 37 mainly about?
It's a wisdom psalm addressing the temptation to envy those who prosper through wrongdoing, encouraging trust in God's justice and timing instead (vv.1-9 and following).