Notes: July 7, 2008 – Psalm 59

Meditation Points:

  • Don’t forget to read the Psalm titles.
  • David had trouble in his life. That trouble is the basis of this psalm. The difference between this psalm and country-western songs that talk about life’s troubles, is that this song ends glorifying God rather than the songwriter’s woes.
  • Who could believe that his father-in-law, Saul the king of Israel, wanted to kill David? Often we find people who do not like us, and that without cause.
  • You’ll find a mixture of praying (vss. 1-2, 5, 11-13, 14-15) and complaining (vss. 3-4, 6-7) in this psalm. Are your prayers a mixture of praying and complaining, too?
  • Selah (vss. 5, 13). Some have suggested this is a musical notation indicating a place to rest. Perhaps in our reading these would be good places to stop and meditate.
  • “Be not merciful to any wicked transgressors.” (vs. 5).
  • “Who, they say, does hear?” When sinners think nobody is watching, they’ll try almost anything.
  • God’s sense of humor (Psalm 59:8).
  • David is annoyed by the speech sins of his adversaries (vs. 12).
  • God is powerful and merciful (vs. 16). Do you know this to be true in your life?
  • “My defense and refuge in the day of trouble” (vs. 17). Where do you turn for help?

 

[print_link]