For the music director; to be played on a stringed instrument; written by David. 

David wrote this song for the music director of the Levites. They were to sing this song with stringed instruments. These songs would be sung at the feasts of Israel.

61:1 O God, hear my cry for help! Pay attention to my prayer! 

David was in trouble. The specific incident is not mentioned. Many commentators think that he may have been hiding in caves from Saul, but this is uncertain. David wants God to pay attention to his prayer.

61:2 From the most remote place on earth I call out to you in my despair. Lead me up to an inaccessible rocky summit! 

David asked God to lead him up to a high rocky plateau where he would be safe from his enemies.

61:3 Indeed, you are my shelter, a strong tower that protects me from the enemy. 

God is David’s shelter. He is a strong tower who protects David from his enemies.

61:4 I will be a permanent guest in your home; I will find shelter in the protection of your wings. (Selah) 

David will live eternally with God. Therefore, like a little bird, David will find protection in the wings of God. David asked the congregation to meditate and think about this Bible doctrine.

61:5 For you, O God, hear my vows; you grant me the reward that belongs to your loyal followers. 

David asked God to listen to his vows. He asked God to give him the eternal reward which belongs to God’s most loyal followers. Every believer should ask God for the highest rewards in heaven. This is a good prayer, because rewards are earned for following the will of God. When one asks for these rewards, then he is actually asking God to help him fulfill divine viewpoint upon the earth.

61:6 Give the king long life! Make his lifetime span several generations! 

David asked God for a long physical life. He wanted his life to span across several generations. This is also a good prayer, because a godly parent can raise godly children who possess the potential to become a force for God in the next generation.

61:7 May he reign forever before God! Decree that your loyal love and faithfulness should protect him. 

David asked that he reign as king forever before God. David asked that he be protected forever. These prayers will be answered, because David will rule Israel during the Millennial Kingdom. 

61:8 Then I will sing praises to your name continually, as I fulfill my vows day after day. 

After God answers this prayer, then David will praise God’s name continually and forever.