Psalm 04

For the music director, to be accompanied by stringed instruments; a psalm of David. 

David was a mighty warrior and a poet. He wrote this psalm to be played with stringed instruments.

4:1 When I call out, answer me, O God who vindicates me! Though I am hemmed in, you will lead me into a wide, open place. Have mercy on me and respond to my prayer! 

David may have been running away from his son Absalom’s coup attempt. As he was hemmed in the caves of the wilderness, he prayed for God to lead him into safe places. He asked God to hear his prayers.

4:2 You men, how long will you try to turn my honor into shame? How long will you love what is worthless and search for what is deceptive? (Selah) 

Absalom’s men were trying to assassinate God’s anointed king. 

4:3 Realize that the Lord shows the godly special favor; the Lord responds when I cry out to him. 

Since David was the anointed king of Israel, he was protected by Jehovah.

4:4 Tremble with fear and do not sin! Meditate as you lie in bed, and repent of your ways! (Selah) 

It was a terrible sin to attempt to kill Jehovah’s anointed king. David would never lay a hand upon King Saul.

4:5 Offer the prescribed sacrifices and trust in the Lord! 

If Absalom’s men were trying to kill God’s anointed king, then their sacrifices to God would do them no good. They needed to trust Jehovah to remove His own anointed king when it was the proper time.

4:6 Many say, “Who can show us anything good?” Smile upon us, Lord! 

There were many discontented people who were following David. David asked Jehovah to bless those who followed him under these tough conditions.

4:7 You make me happier than those who have abundant grain and wine. 

Those who stayed with David during Absalom’s coup attempt made David happier than wine.

4:8 I will lie down and sleep peacefully, for you, Lord, make me safe and secure. 

While David was hiding in caves from Absalom, he knew that he could sleep peacefully, because God was protecting him.