Old Testament
Psalms 4
Overview
Psalm 4 is an evening prayer of trust in which David calls on God to answer him and then turns to address those who love vanity and seek lies. He urges them to be angry yet not sin, to ponder in their hearts and be still, and to offer right sacrifices and trust the LORD. While many ask, 'Who will show us any good?', David finds his joy not in abundant grain and wine but in the light of God's face. The psalm ends in serene confidence, lying down to sleep in peace because God alone makes him dwell in safety.
1To the chief Musician on Neginoth, A Psalm of David. Hear me when I call, O God of my righteousness: thou hast enlarged me when I was in distress; have mercy upon me, and hear my prayer.
2O ye sons of men, how long will ye turn my glory into shame? how long will ye love vanity, and seek after leasing? Selah.
3But know that the LORD hath set apart him that is godly for himself: the LORD will hear when I call unto him.
4Stand in awe, and sin not: commune with your own heart upon your bed, and be still. Selah.
5Offer the sacrifices of righteousness, and put your trust in the LORD.
6There be many that say, Who will shew us any good? LORD, lift thou up the light of thy countenance upon us.
7Thou hast put gladness in my heart, more than in the time that their corn and their wine increased.
8I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, LORD, only makest me dwell in safety.