English · CJB

Psalms143

David earnestly prays for God's faithful and righteous answer, acknowledging that no one can be justified before Him. He describes his soul's persecution and desolation, seeking urgent deliverance from enemies and divine guidance. He trusts in God to quicken him and lead him in righteousness, appealing to God's mercy as His servant.

Appeal to God's Faithfulness and Righteousness

1
A psalm of David: ADONAI, hear my prayer; listen to my pleas for mercy. In your faithfulness, answer me, and in your righteousness. ​
2
Don't bring your servant to trial, since in your sight no one alive would be considered righteous. ​

Complaint of Persecution and Despair

3
For an enemy is pursuing me; he has crushed my life into the ground and left me to live in darkness, like those who have been long dead. ​
4
My spirit faints within me; my heart is appalled within me.

Seeking Refuge in Meditation

5
I remember the days of old, reflecting on all your deeds, thinking about the work of your hands. ​
6
I spread out my hands to you, I long for you like a thirsty land. (Selah)

Urgent Prayer for Deliverance and Guidance

7
Answer me quickly, ADONAI, because my spirit is fainting. Don't hide your face from me, or I'll be like those who drop down into a pit. ​
8
Make me hear of your love in the morning, because I rely on you. Make me know the way I should walk, because I entrust myself to you. ​
9
ADONAI, rescue me from my enemies; I have hidden myself with you.
10
Teach me to do your will, because you are my God; Let your good Spirit guide me on ground that is level. ​
11
For your name's sake, ADONAI, preserve my life; in your righteousness, bring me out of distress. ​
12
In your grace, cut off my enemies; destroy all those harassing me; because I am your servant. ​

Study Notes for Psalms 143

Verse 1

David appeals not on the basis of his own merit, but solely on God's reliable character (faithfulness and righteousness), setting the foundation for the entire prayer.

Verse 2

This verse is a profound confession of universal sinfulness. The Psalmist recognizes that if God judged him strictly based on covenant law, no living person could be justified or found innocent.

Verse 3

The description of being 'smitten... to the ground' and made to 'dwell in darkness' uses imagery associated with the grave (Sheol), emphasizing the closeness of death and utter hopelessness.

Verse 5

In times of overwhelming trouble, the Psalmist intentionally shifts focus from current despair to meditating on God’s historical acts of salvation and creation, renewing hope.

Verse 7

The urgency ('speedily') reflects the imminent danger of spiritual and physical death ('the pit'). Hiding God’s face implies the withdrawal of divine favor and presence, which is equivalent to death.

Verse 8

Hearing God's 'lovingkindness' (Hebrew: *hesed*, covenant loyalty) in the morning symbolizes a fresh start and the assurance needed to navigate the day's trials. This is a request for daily spiritual direction.

Verse 10

The prayer shifts from deliverance from enemies to spiritual formation. David asks for divine instruction, recognizing that true safety lies in obedient alignment with God's will, led by His good Spirit.

Verse 11

To 'quicken' (give life to or revive) is a plea for restoration, requested not for David's comfort, but entirely 'for thy name's sake,' prioritizing God's honor and reputation.

Verse 12

The Psalm concludes with a final petition for vindication, rooted in the covenant relationship. David is God's 'servant,' and God is thus obligated to protect him and execute justice upon his oppressors.

Use ← → arrow keys to navigate
Settings

Reading Style

Typeface

Font Size 19px

Reading Width 45 chars

Options