Psalms 57
Psalm 57 is a song in which David earnestly asks God for deliverance even in suffering, and ultimately praises God’s mercy and faithfulness. It is said that this psalm was written during the time when David was hiding in a cave after being pursued by Saul. It can be divided broadly into two parts: a plea to seek God’s help (verses 1–5) and confidence in God’s deliverance and praise (verses 6–11).
1verseFor 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.
2verseI cry out to God Most High, to God who accomplishes my requests for me.
3verseHe 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.
4verseMy 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.
5verseBe exalted, God, above the heavens! Let your glory be above all the earth!
6verseThey 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.
7verseMy heart is steadfast, God. My heart is steadfast. I will sing, yes, I will sing praises.
8verseWake up, my glory! Wake up, lute and harp! I will wake up the dawn.
9verseI will give thanks to you, Lord, among the peoples. I will sing praises to you among the nations.
10verseFor your great loving kindness reaches to the heavens, and your truth to the skies.
11verseBe exalted, God, above the heavens. Let your glory be over all the earth.
Structure and Flow
- Verses 1–5 (the section of the plea): In dangerous circumstances, David seeks refuge in God and asks Him to show mercy. He confesses that he will hide under God’s shadow until the suffering passes, and he speaks honestly about his own injustice and pain.
- Verses 6–11 (the section of praise and confidence): Even in crisis, David firmly trusts God’s faithfulness and praises Him as he experiences how the schemes of those who tried to harm him end up turning back on themselves. In the end, the psalm concludes with a decision to lift up his heart, sing, and praise.
Overall Meaning
Psalm 57 shows at the same time faith that flees to God and pleads for Him in suffering, and an attitude of trusting in God’s help and deliverance. Even if the situation feels hopeless, the psalmist never stops praising God. David’s example, proclaiming God’s love, truth, and greatness even in the midst of crisis, suggests that in our faith journey, trust and praise must go together for all of us.
Points to Ponder
- In times of crisis and difficult circumstances, we can reflect on who we turn to and how we seek refuge for ourselves.
- We can also consider whether praise and thanksgiving can become our confession even in hardship, and think about an attitude of life that trusts in God’s faithfulness.
Applying to Me
- In the face of fear or problems that come upon my life, I can check whether God is becoming my refuge.
- Even in pain, by choosing thanksgiving and praise, I can find ways to apply my decision to give my heart to God to my life today in a real way.
