1 To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David. In thee, O LORD, do I put my trust; let me never be ashamed: deliver me in thy righteousness.
2 Bow down thine ear to me; deliver me speedily: be thou my strong rock, for an house of defence to save me.
3 For thou [art] my rock and my fortress; therefore for thy name’s sake lead me, and guide me.
4 Pull me out of the net that they have laid privily for me: for thou [art] my strength.
5 Into thine hand I commit my spirit: thou hast redeemed me, O LORD God of truth.
6 I have hated them that regard lying vanities: but I trust in the LORD.
7 I will be glad and rejoice in thy mercy: for thou hast considered my trouble; thou hast known my soul in adversities;
8 And hast not shut me up into the hand of the enemy: thou hast set my feet in a large room.
9 Have mercy upon me, O LORD, for I am in trouble: mine eye is consumed with grief, [yea], my soul and my belly.
10 For my life is spent with grief, and my years with sighing: my strength faileth because of mine iniquity, and my bones are consumed.
11 I was a reproach among all mine enemies, but especially among my neighbours, and a fear to mine acquaintance: they that did see me without fled from me.
12 I am forgotten as a dead man out of mind: I am like a broken vessel.
13 For I have heard the slander of many: fear [was] on every side: while they took counsel together against me, they devised to take away my life.
14 But I trusted in thee, O LORD: I said, Thou [art] my God.
15 My times [are] in thy hand: deliver me from the hand of mine enemies, and from them that persecute me.
16 Make thy face to shine upon thy servant: save me for thy mercies’ sake.
17 Let me not be ashamed, O LORD; for I have called upon thee: let the wicked be ashamed, [and] let them be silent in the grave.
18 Let the lying lips be put to silence; which speak grievous things proudly and contemptuously against the righteous.
19 [Oh] how great [is] thy goodness, which thou hast laid up for them that fear thee; [which] thou hast wrought for them that trust in thee before the sons of men!
20 Thou shalt hide them in the secret of thy presence from the pride of man: thou shalt keep them secretly in a pavilion from the strife of tongues.
21 Blessed [be] the LORD: for he hath shewed me his marvellous kindness in a strong city.
22 For I said in my haste, I am cut off from before thine eyes: nevertheless thou heardest the voice of my supplications when I cried unto thee.
23 O love the LORD, all ye his saints: [for] the LORD preserveth the faithful, and plentifully rewardeth the proud doer.
24 Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the LORD.
Overview of Psalm 31
Psalm 31 is a poignant expression of trust in God amidst distress and adversity. It is attributed to David and reflects themes of reliance on divine protection, lamentation, and ultimate hope. The chapter is structured into several distinct sections that highlight the psalmist’s plea for help, acknowledgment of God’s faithfulness, and a declaration of trust.
Structure and Themes
- Verses 1-5: A Cry for Help
In these opening verses, the psalmist pleads for deliverance from enemies and expresses a deep trust in God’s righteousness. The urgency of the plea is palpable, as the psalmist seeks refuge in God, emphasizing the need for divine intervention.
- Verses 6-8: Acknowledgment of God’s Faithfulness
The psalmist contrasts the trust in God with the futility of those who rely on idols. This section highlights God’s steadfast love and the assurance of His presence in times of trouble.
- Verses 9-13: Expression of Distress
Here, the psalmist articulates personal anguish, describing physical and emotional suffering. The imagery of being forgotten and scorned by others underscores the depth of despair, yet it serves to amplify the need for divine support.
- Verses 14-18: Declaration of Trust
The tone shifts as the psalmist reaffirms faith in God. This declaration is accompanied by a request for protection from enemies and a desire for vindication. The psalmist’s trust is rooted in the acknowledgment of God’s sovereignty.
- Verses 19-22: Praise for Deliverance
In this section, the psalmist reflects on the goodness of God and the blessings that come from trusting Him. The imagery of a hidden treasure signifies the abundance of God’s mercy and faithfulness.
- Verses 23-24: Exhortation to the Faithful
The final verses serve as an encouragement to all who trust in the Lord. The psalmist calls for strength and courage, reinforcing the idea that hope in God is never misplaced.
Theological Insights
- The Nature of God as a Refuge
The psalm emphasizes God as a safe haven in times of trouble, portraying Him as a fortress and a source of strength. This metaphorical language invites readers to consider their own reliance on God during difficult times.
- The Reality of Human Distress
The psalmist’s candid expression of fear and despair reflects the human condition. It acknowledges that suffering is a part of life, yet it also illustrates the importance of turning to God for comfort and support.
- The Importance of Community
The references to scorn and being forgotten highlight the social dynamics of faith. The psalmist’s experience serves as a reminder of the communal aspect of faith, where support from others can be crucial during trials.
- Hope and Assurance
The concluding exhortation to be strong and courageous encapsulates the overarching message of hope. It encourages believers to remain steadfast in their faith, regardless of circumstances, trusting in God’s ultimate deliverance.
Conclusion
Psalm 31 serves as a powerful testament to the interplay of despair and hope in the life of a believer. It invites readers to engage with their own struggles while affirming the unwavering faithfulness of God. The chapter not only offers comfort but also challenges individuals to cultivate a resilient trust in the divine amidst life’s uncertainties.
