The Bible – Old Testament
Psalms
Index
Int. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. … 148. 149. 150.
Chapter 4
1
1 2 For the leader; with stringed instruments. A psalm of David.
2
Answer when I call, my saving God. In my troubles, you cleared a way; show me favor; hear my prayer.
3
How long will you people mock my honor, love what is worthless, chase after lies? Selah
4
Know that the LORD works wonders for the faithful; the LORD hears when I call out.
5
3 Tremble and do not sin; upon your beds ponder in silence.
6
Offer fitting sacrifice and trust in the LORD.
7
Many say, “May we see better times! LORD, show us the light of your face!” Selah
8
But you have given my heart more joy than they have when grain and wine abound.
9
In peace I shall both lie down and sleep, for you alone, LORD, make me secure.
1 [Psalm 4] An individual lament emphasizing trust in God. The petition is based upon the psalmist’s vivid experience of God as savior (⇒ Psalm 4:2). That experience of God is the basis for the warning to the wicked: revere God who intervenes on the side of the faithful (⇒ Psalm 4:3-6). The faithful psalmist exemplifies the blessings given to the just (⇒ Psalm 4:7-8).
2 [1] For the leader: many psalm headings contain this rubric. Its exact meaning is unknown but may signify that such psalms once stood together in a collection of “the choirmaster.” Cf ⇒ 1 Chron 15:21.
3 [5] Tremble: be moved deeply with religious awe. The Greek translation understood the emotion to be anger, and it is so cited in ⇒ Eph 4:26.