Psalms 41:1
Blessed is he that considereth the poor: the Lord will deliver him in time of trouble.
Study Note
Study Note
The beatitude formula ('blessed is he who considers the poor') opens a psalm whose center is the psalmist's own suffering from illness and betrayal by a close friend, creating a connection between care for others and God's care for the one who cares. The Hebrew 'maskil' (considers, has insight into) implies not merely feeling sorry for the poor but wisely attending to their actual needs. John 13:18 applies Psalm 41:9 ('my close friend has lifted his heel against me') to Judas' betrayal of Jesus, suggesting Jesus identified himself with the suffering righteous of this psalm. James 1:27 and Matthew 25:35-40 develop the same theological connection between practical care for the vulnerable and authentic religion.
Other Translations
Blessed is he that considereth the poor: Jehovah will deliver him in the day of evil.
To the Overseer. --A Psalm of David. O the happiness of him Who is acting wisely unto the poor, In a day of evil doth Jehovah deliver him.
Happy is the man who gives thought to the poor; the Lord will be his saviour in the time of trouble.
Cross References
And the Lord shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones: and thou …
Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out …
Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all …
Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which …
Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw …
Give a portion to seven, and also to eight; for thou knowest not what evil shall be upon the earth.
Cast thy bread upon the waters: for thou shalt find it after many days.
For ye have the poor with you always, and whensoever ye will ye may do them good: but me ye …
Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee?
Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom …