Psalms 40:4
Blessed is that man that maketh the LORD his trust, and respecteth not the proud, nor such as turn aside to lies.
Psalms 40:4
This closing verse of a section emphasizes blessedness for those who trust the LORD and resist following the proud or those who turn aside to lies. In Israelite wisdom, trust is integrally connected with virtue: to trust God is to reject cynicism, pride, and deception. The verse contrasts trust in God with reliance on human strength or flattery, and it functions as a didactic hinge within the psalm, encouraging a faithful posture.
Trust in God is the central theme—blessing comes from reliance on the Creator rather than human power or deceit. The passage highlights two dangerous paths: pride (the proud) and lies (those who turn aside to lies). Theologically, it reinforces the biblical ethic of integrity, truth, and faithful submission to God. It also underlines that blessing flows from trusting God’s character and promises.
Evaluate where your trust truly resides. Do you lean on clever schemes, social status, or what others think? Reassess those influences and re-center on God’s sufficiency. Practical steps: memorize a few promises of God, remind yourself daily who you trust, and practice gratitude for God’s faithfulness in ways that counter pride and deceit. Build habits that reinforce honest reliance on God, such as journaling blessings, seeking truth in conversations, and choosing integrity in small decisions.
Cross-References: Psalm 11:1; Psalm 125:1; Jeremiah 17:7-8; Proverbs 3:5-6; Matthew 6:33