57:7 57:7

Psalms 57:8

57:9 57:9

Bible Versions

Awake up, my glory; awake, psaltery and harp: I [myself] will awake early.
Awake up {H5782}{H8798)}, my glory {H3519}; awake {H5782}{H8798)}, psaltery {H5035} and harp {H3658}: I myself will awake {H5782}{H8686)} early {H7837}.
Awake, my glory! Awake, lyre and lute! I will awaken the dawn.
Awake, my glory! Awake, O harp and lyre! I will awaken the dawn.
Awake up, my glory; awake, psaltery and harp: I myself will awake right early.

Psalms 57:8 is a powerful declaration of King David’s unwavering resolve to praise God, even amidst severe distress. This verse encapsulates a spirit of proactive and fervent worship.

Context

This psalm is titled "Michtam of David," often associated with his time fleeing from King Saul, specifically when he was hiding in a cave (1 Samuel 24:3). Despite being in a life-threatening situation, surrounded by enemies (as described in Psalm 57:4), David refuses to let his circumstances dictate his praise. Instead, he calls himself and his instruments to action, anticipating the dawn with worship.

Key Themes

  • Proactive Praise: David doesn't wait for his mood to improve or for deliverance to occur before praising God. He commands his "glory" and instruments to "awake," demonstrating a deliberate and intentional act of worship. This highlights the importance of choosing praise, even in adversity.
  • Inner Awakening: "Awake up, my glory" speaks to stirring one's innermost being—the soul, spirit, or perhaps the voice—to engage fully in worship. It's a call for the entire self to be alert and ready for communion with God.
  • Zeal and Determination: The phrase "I [myself] will awake early" emphasizes David's eagerness and commitment. He intends to be among the first to praise, even before the day begins, reflecting a deep spiritual hunger and passion for God's presence. This resonates with other scriptures encouraging early seeking of God.
  • Worship as a Weapon: In the face of fear and danger, David turns to praise. This act of worship becomes an affirmation of faith and trust in God's ultimate deliverance, shifting focus from his problems to God's greatness.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "my glory" (כְּבוֹדִי, kᵉbôdî) can refer to one's soul, spirit, or innermost being, which is the seat of dignity and honor. It can also be understood as the tongue or voice, as the primary means by which one expresses praise. By commanding his "glory" to awake, David is rousing his very essence to worship. The "psaltery" (נֵבֶל, nēḇel) and "harp" (כִּנּוֹר, kinnôr) were common stringed instruments used in ancient Israelite worship, signifying the musical and celebratory aspect of his intended praise.

Practical Application

Psalms 57:8 challenges believers today to cultivate a similar proactive and fervent spirit of worship. Regardless of our circumstances—whether facing personal struggles, uncertainties, or distress—we are called to awaken our "glory," our innermost being, to praise God. This verse encourages us to:

  • Prioritize Praise: Make worship a deliberate act, not just a reaction to good times.
  • Engage Fully: Stir our whole being—mind, heart, and voice—to worship God with authenticity.
  • Seek God Earnestly: Develop a discipline of seeking God early, both in the day and in our spiritual journey, demonstrating a passionate pursuit of His presence. This intentionality can transform our perspective and strengthen our faith, reminding us that we should bring our requests to God with thanksgiving.
Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Psalms 16:9

    Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth: my flesh also shall rest in hope.

  • Psalms 30:12

    To the end that [my] glory may sing praise to thee, and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give thanks unto thee for ever.

  • Judges 5:12

    ¶ Awake, awake, Deborah: awake, awake, utter a song: arise, Barak, and lead thy captivity captive, thou son of Abinoam.

  • Acts 2:26

    Therefore did my heart rejoice, and my tongue was glad; moreover also my flesh shall rest in hope:

  • Psalms 108:1

    ¶ A Song [or] Psalm of David. O God, my heart is fixed; I will sing and give praise, even with my glory.

  • Psalms 108:3

    I will praise thee, O LORD, among the people: and I will sing praises unto thee among the nations.

  • Isaiah 52:1

    ¶ Awake, awake; put on thy strength, O Zion; put on thy beautiful garments, O Jerusalem, the holy city: for henceforth there shall no more come into thee the uncircumcised and the unclean.
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