A well-written song by David, when he was in the cave; a prayer. 

The Hebrew word for “well-written song” is מַשְׂכִּ֥יל (maskil), meaning a song of instruction. The author is David. He most likely wrote this song when he was hiding in caves from King Saul. King Saul was Israel’s king, but he was Satan’s man. He was attempting to kill the future King of Judah who would carry the messianic seed. Samuel anointed David as king when he was a boy, so David was immortal until this prophecy was fulfilled.

142:1 To the Lord I cry out; to the Lord I plead for mercy. 

David was in trouble. King Saul had declared David as an outlaw. The entire nation of Israel was looking for David so that he could be executed as a criminal. David had no army, no food, no shelter, and no water. He had to rely completely on the Lord to protect him. Therefore, David cried out to the only One who could save him and provide him with his needs.

142:2 I pour out my lament before him; I tell him about my troubles. 

David told God about all of his troubles.

142:3 Even when my strength leaves me, you watch my footsteps. In the path where I walk they have hidden a trap for me. 

David’s strength was gone, but he knew that God was watching over him. Evil men of Saul had laid many traps for David, but David felt safe in the Lord’s hands.

142:4 Look to the right and see! No one cares about me. I have nowhere to run; no one is concerned about my life. 

David was a national criminal. No one cared about David. They would rather have the reward for capturing him. David had nowhere to run.

142:5 I cry out to you, O Lord; I say, “You are my shelter, my security in the land of the living.” 

Jehovah was David’s only shelter and security.

142:6 Listen to my cry for help, for I am in serious trouble! Rescue me from those who chase me, for they are stronger than I am. 

David was outnumbered. It was he against the entire nation of Israel. However, one with God is a majority. 

142:7 Free me from prison, that I may give thanks to your name. Because of me the godly will assemble, for you will vindicate me. 

David was imprisoned in the caves of the wilderness. He was surrounded by Saul’s army with nowhere to turn. He asked God to free him from this desert prison. After God rescues him, then David will praise Jehovah.