This Week's Bible Reading
 
November 18, 2025


Psalm 145:18-20
King James Version
 
“18 The LORD is nigh unto all them that call upon him, to all that call upon him in truth.
19 He will fulfil the desire of them that fear him: he also will hear their cry, and will save them.
20 The LORD preserveth all them that love him: but all the wicked will he destroy.”

What does Psalm 145:18-20 mean?

Psalm 145:18–20 (KJV) narrows the focus from God's general goodness to all creation to His special faithfulness to His devoted people. The passages emphasize God's nearness, responsiveness, and justice toward those who sincerely seek Him. It assures that God is close to the faithful, fulfills their desires, and protects them—while also warning of judgment against the wicked.

Psalm 145, Verse 18: “The Lord is nigh unto all them that call upon him, to all that call upon him in truth.”
  • “Nigh” means near—God is intimately close to those who genuinely seek Him.
  • “Call upon him in truth” implies sincerity, humility, and alignment with God’s will. It’s not just about saying prayers; but doing so with a truthful heart.
  • The verse contrasts God with earthly rulers: He is accessible to all, not distant or selective. Even the “meanest” can approach Him confidently.
Psalm 145, Verse 19: “He will fulfil the desire of them that fear him: he also will hear their cry, and will save them.”
  • “Fear him” refers to reverent awe and respect, not terror. It’s about honoring God’s holiness and authority.
  • God responds to the desires of those who revere Him—but only when those desires align with His will and are for their good.1
  • The verse assures that God not only listens but actively saves—spiritually, emotionally, and sometimes physically.
Psalm 145, Verse 20: “The Lord preserveth all them that love him: but all the wicked will he destroy.”
  • “Preserveth” means God protects, sustains, and keeps safe those who love Him.
  • In contrast, “the wicked”—those who reject God’s ways—face destruction. This isn’t just physical ruin but spiritual separation from God.
  • The verse underscores God’s justice: He is merciful to the faithful but does not ignore evil.
In Summary:

These verses offer both comfort and challenge; comfort for those who love and fear God, and a call to truthfulness and reverence in our relationship with Him.
  • God’s accessibility: He’s near to those who seek Him sincerely.
  • Divine responsiveness: He hears, fulfills, and saves.
  • Moral clarity: Love and reverence lead to preservation; wickedness leads to judgment.
 
Notes:
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1 Bible Hub