God’s Word of Mercy and Forgiveness

Introduction

Psalm 57: This psalm is an individual prayer for God’s protection from enemies. It is attributed to David at a time when he was hiding in a cave while running away from King Saul (see 1 Samuel 24). The psalm includes two refrains (verses 5, 11) that attest to the greatness and glory of God.

Scripture Reading

A Prayer for Help

1Be merciful to me, O God, be merciful,

because I come to you for safety.

In the shadow of your wings I find protection

until the raging storms are over.

2I call to God, the Most High,

to God, who supplies my every need.

3He will answer from heaven and save me;

he will defeat my oppressors.

God will show me his constant love and faithfulness.

4I am surrounded by enemies,

who are like lions hungry for human flesh.

Their teeth are like spears and arrows;

their tongues are like sharp swords.

5Show your greatness in the sky, O God,

and your glory over all the earth.

6My enemies have spread a net to catch me;

I am overcome with distress.

They dug a pit in my path,

but fell into it themselves.

7I have complete confidence, O God;

I will sing and praise you!

8Wake up, my soul!

Wake up, my harp and lyre!

I will wake up the sun.

9I will thank you, O Lord, among the nations.

I will praise you among the peoples.

10Your constant love reaches the heavens;

your faithfulness touches the skies.

11Show your greatness in the sky, O God,

and your glory over all the earth.

Today’s Key Verse: Psalm 57:2

I call to God, the Most High, to God, who supplies my every need.

Reflect

How would you describe the tone at the opening of this psalm? In verse 4, enemies are described as lions. In the psalms, enemies are often compared to lions or wild animals (see 7:2; 17:12; 22:12-13; 35:17; 58:3-6). What does this tell you about the kind of danger the psalm writer was facing? How is confidence in God expressed?

Pray

I thank you, Lord God, for your steadfast love and faithfulness. Great are you, God Most High, and your glory is over all the earth. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Psalm 91: A psalm expressing trust in God.