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    Psalm 86:5 – Meaning & Devotional

    "For thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive; and plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon thee."

    — Psalm 86:5 (KJV)

    What This Verse Means

    Three attributes define God's character: goodness, readiness to forgive, and abundant mercy. He is not reluctant to forgive but 'ready' — eagerly willing, leaning forward to extend mercy.

    'Plenteous in mercy' means there's always more than enough. You cannot exhaust God's mercy by calling on Him too often or needing too much. His mercy overflows for all who call.

    Historical Context

    Psalm 86 is a personal prayer of David during a time of distress. Rather than listing his problems, David focuses on God's character — His goodness, forgiveness, and mercy — as the basis for his appeal.

    How to Apply This Today

    Don't hesitate to ask God for forgiveness, no matter how many times you've failed. He is ready — not reluctant — to forgive. His mercy is plenteous, never in short supply.

    Related Verses

    Psalm 103:8

    "The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy."

    1 John 1:9

    "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins."

    🙏 A Prayer from Psalm 86:5

    Lord, You are good and ready to forgive. I call upon You now, trusting in Your plenteous mercy. Thank You for never running out of grace. Amen.

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    Three attributes define God's character: goodness, readiness to forgive, and abundant mercy. He is not reluctant to forgive but 'ready' — eagerly willing, leaning forward to extend mercy.

    Psalm 86 is a personal prayer of David during a time of distress. Rather than listing his problems, David focuses on God's character — His goodness, forgiveness, and mercy — as the basis for his appeal.

    Don't hesitate to ask God for forgiveness, no matter how many times you've failed. He is ready — not reluctant — to forgive. His mercy is plenteous, never in short supply.

    Related Bible Questions

    Common questions people ask about this passage — answered with KJV scripture.

    Can God Forgive Any Sin?

    Yes — the Bible teaches that God's grace is sufficient to forgive any sin when a person repents and believes in Christ.

    Read answer

    How Do You Forgive Others According to the Bible?

    Biblical forgiveness means releasing bitterness and choosing not to hold someone's offense against them — just as God in Christ forgave us.

    Read answer

    What does the Bible say about forgiveness?

    The Bible teaches that God freely forgives those who repent and that believers must forgive others as they have been forgiven — not seven times, but seventy times seven.

    Read answer

    What is the difference between faith and works?

    Faith is trusting in God for salvation; works are the righteous actions that flow from genuine faith. The Bible teaches salvation by faith alone, but true faith always produces good works.

    Read answer

    What Is the New Covenant?

    The New Covenant is God's promise, fulfilled in Jesus Christ, to write His law on believers' hearts, forgive sins permanently, and establish a personal relationship with His people.

    Read answer

    What Does the Bible Say About Gratitude?

    The Bible commands thankfulness in all circumstances as an expression of faith, recognizing that every good gift comes from God and gratitude transforms our perspective.

    Read answer

    Deep Dive Commentary

    For a more in-depth study, read our verse-by-verse commentary:

    Psalm 86:5 Commentary

    In-depth meaning, context & application • God's Mercy

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    More Devotionals on God's Mercy

    Psalm 103:8-12

    The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy. He will not always chide: neither will he keep his anger for ever. He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities. For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is his mercy toward them that fear him. As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us.

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