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Psalms 57

World English Bible

WEB

1For the Chief Musician. To the tune of “Do Not Destroy.” A poem by David, when he fled from Saul, in the cave. Be merciful to me, God, be merciful to me, for my soul takes refuge in you. Yes, in the shadow of your wings, I will take refuge, until disaster has passed. 2I cry out to God Most High, to God who accomplishes my requests for me. 3He will send from heaven, and save me, he rebukes the one who is pursuing me. Selah. God will send out his loving kindness and his truth. 4My soul is among lions. I lie among those who are set on fire, even the sons of men, whose teeth are spears and arrows, and their tongue a sharp sword. 5Be exalted, God, above the heavens! Let your glory be above all the earth! 6They have prepared a net for my steps. My soul is bowed down. They dig a pit before me. They fall into the middle of it themselves. Selah. 7My heart is steadfast, God. My heart is steadfast. I will sing, yes, I will sing praises. 8Wake up, my glory! Wake up, lute and harp! I will wake up the dawn. 9I will give thanks to you, Lord, among the peoples. I will sing praises to you among the nations. 10For your great loving kindness reaches to the heavens, and your truth to the skies. 11Be exalted, God, above the heavens. Let your glory be over all the earth.

World English Bible, 2020 stable text edition. Public domain; “World English Bible” is a trademark of eBible.org. eBible.org

Overview

Psalms 57 is a heartfelt cry of David during a time of distress, specifically when he fled from King Saul and took refuge in a cave. The psalm opens with David seeking refuge in God, expressing his trust in the Lord's mercy and protection. He declares, "Be merciful to me, O God, be merciful to me! For my soul trusts in You; and in the shadow of Your wings, I will make my refuge" (#David, #refuge). This imagery of taking shelter under God's wings illustrates the deep sense of safety and comfort found in His presence, a recurring theme throughout the Psalms. David's plea for mercy highlights his reliance on God's grace during perilous times.

As the psalm progresses, David contrasts his dire situation with the greatness of God. He acknowledges the threats from his enemies, describing them as fierce and relentless, yet he remains confident in God's deliverance. He proclaims, "I will cry out to God Most High, to God who performs all things for me" (#GodMostHigh). This declaration of faith emphasizes that despite the challenges he faces, David believes in God's sovereignty and ability to intervene. The psalm concludes with a triumphant note, as David vows to praise God among the nations, declaring His steadfast love and faithfulness. This commitment to worship, even in the midst of trials, serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of glorifying God in all circumstances.

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Referenced by

  1. Judges 5:12v8Judges 5:12 calls Deborah and Barak to awake and sing, similar to Psalm 57:8 where the psalmist calls his soul to awake and sing praises to God.
  2. 1 Samuel 22:1v1David's time in the cave of Adullam, as mentioned in 1 Samuel 22:1, is reflected in Psalm 57, where David seeks God's mercy and protection during this period of distress.
  3. Psalms 36:5v10Both verses emphasize the vastness and steadfastness of God's love and faithfulness, comparing them to the heavens and the clouds.
  4. Psalms 108:1v7Psalm 108:1 and Psalm 57:7 both express a steadfast heart and a commitment to sing and make music to God, highlighting a theme of unwavering devotion and praise.
  5. Psalms 108:3v9Both verses emphasize the psalmist's intention to praise God among the nations, underscoring the universal scope of worship and the proclamation of God's glory.
  6. Psalms 108:5v11Both verses call for God's exaltation above the heavens and His glory over all the earth, emphasizing the majesty and supremacy of God.

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