Bible Study Lesson: Psalm 57 – "A Prayer of Distress"

Introduction

Psalm 57 is a poignant psalm of David, written during a time of great distress when he was fleeing from Saul and hiding in a cave. It is a powerful testimony of seeking God's mercy, finding refuge in Him, and trusting in His faithfulness despite dire circumstances. This study will delve into the psalm’s context, its verses, reference scriptures, and applications for today.

Context and Background

Authorship and Background:

Author: King David.Historical Context: This psalm was written while David was fleeing from King Saul, likely when he was hiding in the cave of Adullam or Engedi (1 Samuel 22:1-2, 24:1-3). It reflects his desperation and his deep trust in God despite the danger he faced.

To the Choirmaster: According to Do Not Destroy. A Miktam of David, when he fled from Saul, in the cave:

"Do Not Destroy": Possibly a tune or musical style known to the people of Israel.

Miktam: A literary or musical term, possibly indicating a golden or precious psalm.

Outline and Explanation

Verses 1-3: Seeking God's Mercy

1 Be merciful to me, O God, be merciful to me, for in you my soul takes refuge; in the shadow of your wings I will take refuge, till the storms of destruction pass by.

Key Hebrew Word: "חָנַן" (chanan) – to be gracious, show favor, have mercy.

Imagery: "In the shadow of your wings" evokes the image of a bird protecting its young, symbolizing God's protective care.

Reference Scripture: Psalm 91:4 – "He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart."

2 I cry out to God Most High, to God who fulfills his purpose for me.

Cry for Help: David calls on God, acknowledging His sovereignty and purpose.

Reference Scripture: Philippians 1:6 – "Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus."

3 He will send from heaven and save me; he will put to shame him who tramples on me. Selah God will send out his steadfast love and his faithfulness!

Confidence in Deliverance: David is assured of God’s intervention and protection.

Reference Scripture: Psalm 144:7 – "Reach down your hand from on high; deliver me and rescue me from the mighty waters, from the hands of foreigners."

Verses 4-6: The Threat of Enemies

4 My soul is in the midst of lions; I lie down amid fiery beasts—the children of man, whose teeth are spears and arrows, whose tongues are sharp swords.

Imagery of Danger: David vividly describes the peril he faces from his enemies.

Reference Scripture: Psalm 22:13 – "Roaring lions that tear their prey open their mouths wide against me."

5 Be exalted, O God, above the heavens! Let your glory be over all the earth!

Praise in Peril: Despite his distress, David exalts God, recognizing His supremacy.

Reference Scripture: Isaiah 6:3 – "And they were calling to one another: 'Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory.'"

6 They set a net for my steps; my soul was bowed down. They dug a pit in my way, but they have fallen into it themselves. Selah

Divine Justice: David trusts that his enemies’ schemes will ultimately fail.

Reference Scripture: Proverbs 26:27 – "Whoever digs a pit will fall into it; if someone rolls a stone, it will roll back on them."

Verses 7-11: Declaration of Trust and Praise

7 My heart is steadfast, O God, my heart is steadfast! I will sing and make melody!

Resolute Faith: David expresses unwavering faith and readiness to praise God.

Reference Scripture: Psalm 108:1 – "My heart, O God, is steadfast; I will sing and make music with all my soul."

8 Awake, my glory! Awake, O harp and lyre! I will awake the dawn!

Call to Worship: David rouses himself to worship, even in the face of danger.

Reference Scripture: Psalm 30:12 – "That my heart may sing your praises and not be silent. Lord my God, I will praise you forever."

9 I will give thanks to you, O Lord, among the peoples; I will sing praises to you among the nations.

Public Declaration: David’s praise extends beyond personal devotion to a public witness.

Reference Scripture: Psalm 18:49 – "Therefore I will praise you, Lord, among the nations; I will sing the praises of your name."

10 For your steadfast love is great to the heavens, your faithfulness to the clouds.

Attributes of God: Celebrating God’s boundless love and faithfulness.

Reference Scripture: Lamentations 3:22-23 – "Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness."

11 Be exalted, O God, above the heavens! Let your glory be over all the earth!

Refrain of Praise: Repeated from verse 5, emphasizing God's glory.

Reference Scripture: Psalm 113:4 – "The Lord is exalted over all the nations, his glory above the heavens."

Real-World Applications

Seeking Refuge in God:

Example: In times of crisis, such as natural disasters, personal loss, or persecution, seek God's protection and mercy.

Application: Develop a habit of turning to God first in times of distress. Pray for His mercy and trust in His protection. Join prayer groups or online communities to share and seek support in prayer.

Praising God in Adversity:

Example: Despite facing severe trials, like losing a job or facing health challenges, maintain a posture of worship and praise.

Application: Cultivate a heart of worship that exalts God regardless of circumstances. Create a playlist of worship songs that focus on God's attributes and listen to it regularly, especially during tough times.

Trusting in God's Justice:

Example: When dealing with unjust treatment or false accusations, trust that God will bring justice.Application: Refrain from seeking revenge or resorting to unethical means to clear your name. Trust in God's timing and justice, and maintain integrity in your actions.

Public Declaration of Faith:

Example: Sharing personal testimonies of God's faithfulness in public forums or social media can encourage others.

Application: Be bold in sharing how God has worked in your life. Write a blog, post on social media, or speak in community gatherings about God's faithfulness and love.

Conclusion

Psalm 57 is a powerful expression of seeking God’s mercy and refuge amidst distress. David’s unwavering trust in God, even in the face of danger, and his commitment to praise highlight the importance of faith and worship in our own lives. As we navigate our challenges, let us be inspired by David's example to seek refuge in God, praise Him continually, trust in His justice, and declare His goodness publicly.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your steadfast love and faithfulness. Teach us to seek refuge in You during times of distress and to praise You regardless of our circumstances. Help us to trust in Your justice and to boldly declare Your goodness to those around us. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.