The term "upholdest" is an archaic form of the verb "uphold," which means to support, sustain, or maintain. In the context of the Bible, it often refers to God's sustaining power and His ability to maintain the order of creation, support His people, and uphold His righteous standards.

Biblical Usage and Context

The concept of God upholding His creation and His people is a recurring theme throughout the Scriptures. It emphasizes God's sovereignty, faithfulness, and omnipotence. The term "upholdest" itself may not appear frequently in modern translations, but the idea is prevalent.

Key Scripture References

1. Psalm 145:14 : "The LORD upholds all who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down." This verse highlights God's compassion and His role as a sustainer for those who are weak or in distress. It reassures believers of God's readiness to support and elevate those who rely on Him.

2. Isaiah 41:10 : "Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will surely help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand." Here, God promises His presence and support to His people, assuring them of His strength and righteousness. This passage is often cited for comfort and encouragement, emphasizing God's unwavering support.

3. Hebrews 1:3 : "The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of His nature, upholding all things by His powerful word." This verse speaks of Jesus Christ's divine nature and His role in sustaining the universe. It underscores the belief in Christ's active involvement in creation and His authority over all things.

Theological Significance

The idea of God upholding His creation and His people is central to understanding His nature and His relationship with the world. It reflects His omnipotence and His intimate involvement in the lives of believers. God's upholding power assures Christians of His constant presence and His ability to maintain the order and purpose of creation.

Practical Implications for Believers

For believers, the assurance that God upholds them provides comfort and strength in times of trouble. It encourages trust in God's provision and guidance, knowing that He is actively involved in their lives. This trust in God's sustaining power is foundational to a life of faith, enabling believers to face challenges with confidence and hope.

Conclusion

While the term "upholdest" may not be commonly used in contemporary language, its meaning and implications remain vital to the Christian faith. It serves as a reminder of God's unwavering support and His sovereign control over all aspects of life.

Whitsuntide the Spirit of Wisdom, Love, and Joy.
... Spirit of the Highest God,. Lord from whom is life bestow'd,. Who upholdest everything,.
Hear me, hear me, while I sing! For the noblest gift Thou art. ...
/.../whitsuntide the spirit of wisdom.htm

Psalm 73
... O Lord, I am with thee: Thou dost me hold by my right hand,. and still upholdest
me. ^24Thou, with thy counsel, while I live,. wilt me conduct and guide; ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/anonymous/scottish psalter and paraphrases/psalm 73.htm

Psalm XLI.
... let them shake.... 13. "But as for Me, Thou upholdest Me, because of Mine
innocence" (ver.12). Truly innocence; integrity without ...
/.../christianbookshelf.org/augustine/exposition on the book of psalms/psalm xli.htm

Our Lady's Candle-Mass
... Thou upholdest us, and forsakest not the miserable sinner, until thou seest that
the terrible Judge is propitiated." May we thus honour and follow this blessed ...
/.../tauler/the inner way/sermon vii our ladys candle-mass.htm

Upon Our Lord's SermonOn the Mount
... Whose mercies over all rejoice,. Through endless ages still the same. Thou, by
thy word, upholdest all; Thy bounteous love to all is show'd,. ...
/.../wesley/sermons on several occasions/sermon 26 upon our lords.htm

The Desire of the Righteous Granted;
... And is this all? No. 'And as for me, thou upholdest me in mine integrity,
and settest me before thy face for ever' (Psalm 41:12). ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the desire of the righteous.htm

Upholdest (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Upholdest (1 Occurrence). Psalms 41:12 And as for me,
thou upholdest me in mine integrity, and settest me before thy face for ever. ...
/u/upholdest.htm - 6k

Upholdeth (8 Occurrences)

/u/upholdeth.htm - 8k

Upheld (15 Occurrences)
... YLT). Psalms 41:12 And as for me, Thou upholdest me because of mine integrity,
and settest me before Thy face for ever. (See RSV). ...
/u/upheld.htm - 10k

Upholders (1 Occurrence)

/u/upholders.htm - 6k

Settest (13 Occurrences)
... (KJV JPS ASV YLT). Psalms 41:12 And as for me, thou upholdest me in mine integrity,
and settest me before thy face for ever. (KJV JPS ASV DBY WBS). ...
/s/settest.htm - 10k

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