Psalms 34:6
This poor man cried, and the LORD heard him, and saved him out of all his troubles.
Psalms 34:6
Here, the voice returns to hailing a specific, vulnerable person: “This poor man cried, and the LORD heard him, and saved him out of all his troubles.” The term “poor” can denote financial need, social marginalization, or spiritual desperation. It emphasizes that God’s attention is often directed toward the lowly and afflicted, not the self-sufficient. David’s personal testimony—his cry reaching God and resulting salvation—highlights God as a compassionate rescuer who prioritizes the distressed. The verse sits within a Psalm that celebrates God’s deliverance, inviting all who feel weak to trust in the LORD’s power to save. The phrase “out of all his troubles” suggests comprehensive deliverance, not just partial relief, underscoring God’s ability to restore in fullness.
This verse embodies the biblical theme of God’s preferential love for the vulnerable and his readiness to rescue. It aligns with the theological arc of Luke 1:52-53 and James 2:5, where God’s mercy is demonstrated in the humble and afflicted. The deliverance from trouble signals salvation that transcends immediate circumstance and points to ultimate redemptive acts in Christ. It also reinforces the reciprocity between prayer and divine action: prayer initiates rescue, and rescue confirms God’s faithfulness.
In practical terms, this verse validates turning to God in poverty, illness, anxiety, or social marginalization. If you feel unseen or overwhelmed, bring your cry to God and invite trusted friends to stand with you in prayer. For those with resources, this verse can fuel compassion: sponsor, advocate for, or mentor someone in need, recognizing that God often works through the communities he forms. For families or churches, create spaces where the vulnerable can share their stories and receive tangible help, reflecting God’s heart for the poor. The core call is not to pretend perfection but to cry out to God with honesty and let his deliverance shape your life and the lives of others.
Cross-References: Psalm 34:17-19; Psalm 41:1-2; Isaiah 41:17; Luke 18:1-7; James 5:13-16