Read Psalm 57
Guided question at the bottom.
For the director of music. To the tune of “Do Not Destroy.” Of David. A miktam.
When he had fled from Saul into the cave.
Have mercy on me, my God, have mercy on me,
for in you I take refuge.
I will take refuge in the shadow of your wings
until the disaster has passed.
2I cry out to God Most High,
to God, who vindicates me.
3He sends from heaven and saves me,
rebuking those who hotly pursue me—
God sends forth his love and his faithfulness.
4I am in the midst of lions;
I am forced to dwell among ravenous beasts—
men whose teeth are spears and arrows,
whose tongues are sharp swords.
5Be exalted, O God, above the heavens;
let your glory be over all the earth.
6They spread a net for my feet—
I was bowed down in distress.
They dug a pit in my path—
but they have fallen into it themselves.
7My heart, O God, is steadfast,
my heart is steadfast;
I will sing and make music.
8Awake, my soul!
Awake, harp and lyre!
I will awaken the dawn.
9I will praise you, Lord, among the nations;
I will sing of you among the peoples.
10For great is your love, reaching to the heavens;
your faithfulness reaches to the skies.
11Be exalted, O God, above the heavens;
let your glory be over all the earth.
Questions
How does David describe God as his refuge in verses 1-3? How can we seek God’s protection during trials?
What does it mean for David to “take refuge in the shadow of God’s wings”? How does this image bring comfort?
How does David’s declaration, “My heart is confident/steadfast” in verse 7, reflect his faith in the middle of adversity?
What does David’s commitment to praise God among the nations in verses 7-11 teach us about worship, even in difficult times?
What praises can you lift to God amidst your difficulties today?