A Cry for Help
Study note
David asks God to hear his prayer, reminding himself that God has helped him before. He challenges those who dishonor him and chase worthless things.
1 When I call out to you, please answer me, God — you are the one who always does right. When I was trapped, you made room for me. Show me kindness now and listen to what I'm asking. Hear me when I call, O God of my righteousness: thou hast enlarged me when I was in distress; have mercy upon me, and hear my prayer.
2 How much longer will you people drag my reputation through the dirt? How much longer will you chase things that are empty and believe in lies? Selah. O ye sons of men, how long will ye turn my glory into shame? how long will ye love vanity, and seek after leasing? Selah.
3 Here is something you should know: the Lord has chosen those who are devoted to him as his own. Whenever I call out to the Lord, he hears me. But know that the LORD hath set apart him that is godly for himself: the LORD will hear when I call unto him.
Trust and Peace
Study note
David advises people to be careful not to sin when angry. He says the joy God gives is greater than any harvest. He ends by lying down in perfect peace because God alone keeps him safe.
4 If you feel angry, don't let it push you into doing wrong. As you lie quietly in bed at night, search your own heart, and be still. Selah. Stand in awe, and sin not: commune with your own heart upon your bed, and be still. Selah.
5 Bring the offerings that are truly right before God, and place all your confidence in the Lord. Offer the sacrifices of righteousness, and put your trust in the LORD.
6 So many people keep asking, "Who is going to give us something good?" Lord, let the warmth of your face shine down on us. There be many that say, Who will shew us any good? LORD, lift thou up the light of thy countenance upon us.
7 You have poured a deeper happiness into my heart than people feel when they have more grain and wine than they know what to do with. Thou hast put gladness in my heart, more than in the time that their corn and their wine increased.
8 The moment I lie down, I drift into peaceful sleep, because you — and you alone, Lord — surround me with safety. I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, LORD, only makest me dwell in safety.