Psalms 22:15
My strength is dried up like a potsherd; and my tongue cleaveth to my jaws; and thou hast brought me into the dust of death.
Psalms 22:15
Verse 15 depicts bodily depletion: “My strength is dried up like a potsherd; and my tongue cleaveth to my jaws; and thou hast brought me into the dust of death.” The imagery of dryness and dryness of mouth signals severe dehydration of life’s vitality and the sense of imminent death. The potsherd metaphor signals something brittle and broken, literally unable to contain life. The climactic “dust of death” phrase communicates mortality’s proximity. The verse sets up the psalmist’s cry for deliverance by highlighting the fragility of human life in the face of overwhelming pressure. The surrounding context of pain makes the call for God’s rescue even more urgent, underscoring the arc from lament to hope.
Theologically, the verse foregrounds the human condition under the weight of sin and suffering. It reinforces that life’s vitality depends on God’s sustaining grace. The phrase evokes themes of mortality and God’s ultimate act of salvation, which would be fulfilled in the messianic witness and New Testament understanding of salvation through suffering. This verse also aligns with the idea that God’s strength is often perfected in human weakness, a recurring motif in the broader scriptural narrative.
When energy drains away and words lose their power, remember that you’re not alone. Practical response: hydrate, eat, and rest; seek medical or mental health support if needed. Break tasks into small steps and pace yourself. In relationships, communicate your limits clearly to prevent burnout from over-commitment. If you’re praying for intervention, this verse can become a reminder to persist in prayer even when you feel exhausted—trust that God hears and can act in mercy. Use the image of dryness as a cue to refill with nourishment—physical rest, emotional care, spiritual practices like walking prayer or scripture meditation. Embrace small, sustainable choices that keep you connected to God’s vitality even in exhaustion.
Cross-References: Psalm 18:32-33; Isaiah 40:29-31; Matthew 11:28; 2 Corinthians 4:7-9; James 5:14-15