PSALMS 56

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‹ Chapter 55 PSALMS — All Chapters Chapter 57 ›

1 To the overcoming, on the dumb culver of far drawing away, the comely song of David, when the Philistines held him in Gath. God, have mercy on me, for a man hath defouled me; all day he impugned, and troubled me. 2 Mine enemies defouled me all day; for many fighters were against me. 3 Of the highness of day I shall dread; but God, I shall hope in thee. 4 In God I shall praise my words; I hoped in God, I shall not dread what thing flesh, or man, shall do to me. 5 All day they cursed my words; against me all their thoughts were into evil. 6 They shall dwell, and they shall hide; they shall ambush mine heel. As they abide my life, 7 for nought shalt thou make them safe; in ire thou shalt break altogether peoples. 8 God, I showed my life to thee; thou hast set [or puttest] my tears in thy sight. As and in thy promise, Lord; 9 then mine enemies shall be turned aback. In whatever day I shall inwardly call thee; lo! I have known, that thou art my God. 10 In God I shall praise a word; in the Lord I shall praise a word. 11 I shall hope in God; I shall not dread what thing man shall do to me. 12 God, thine avows [or vows] be in me; which I shall yield praisings to thee. 13 For thou hast delivered my life from death, and my feet from sliding; that I please before God in the light of them that live.

What Is This Chapter About?

Theme: Trust in God Amidst Persecution

Psalms 56 is a prayer of David when he was seized by the Philistines in Gath, expressing his trust in God amidst persecution and danger. The central message of the chapter is the assurance of God's presence and deliverance in times of trouble. Through his prayer, David demonstrates how to trust in God's sovereignty and faithfulness even when facing overwhelming odds.

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Key Verse

Christ in This Chapter

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Key Words / Phrases

Names of God

Key Verse

Psalms 56:3 "What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee"

This verse is central to the chapter because it encapsulates David's decision to trust in God despite his fears. It highlights the importance of choosing to trust God in the midst of uncertainty and danger. By focusing on this key verse, readers can apply the same principle to their own lives, learning to trust in God's goodness and sovereignty even when they are afraid.

Key Words in Psalms 56

"fear"

The word 'fear' is used to describe David's initial emotional response to his situation, but also to contrast with his decision to trust in God.

"trust"

Trust is a pivotal concept in the chapter, emphasizing David's choice to rely on God's faithfulness and deliverance.

"God"

References to God throughout the chapter underscore His central role in David's life and his trust in God's character and promises.

"enemies"

The term 'enemies' represents the external threats and dangers that David faces, which serve as a backdrop for his declaration of trust in God.

Christ in This Chapter

The theme of trust in God's deliverance in Psalms 56 is closely related to the Christian concept of trusting in Jesus Christ for salvation and protection. Just as David trusted in God's faithfulness, believers can trust in Christ's power and love to overcome all challenges (Psalms 56:4, 11). The chapter also foreshadows the ultimate deliverance that Jesus Christ provides from the enemies of sin and death, offering eternal salvation to all who trust in Him. By considering the broader biblical context, including passages like John 14:27 and Hebrews 13:6, readers can deepen their understanding of how Psalms 56 points to the hope and assurance found in Jesus Christ. (John 14:27 · Hebrews 13:6)

Names of Deity

Names and pronouns referring to God are marked throughout the text.

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‹ Chapter 55 PSALMS — All Chapters Chapter 57 ›

PSALMS 56

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