Psalms 86
Read Psalms 86 (WEB)+
1Hear, Yahweh, and answer me, for I am poor and needy. 2Preserve my soul, for I am godly. You, my God, save your servant who trusts in you. 3Be merciful to me, Lord, for I call to you all day long. 4Bring joy to the soul of your servant, for to you, Lord, do I lift up my soul. 5For you, Lord, are good, and ready to forgive; abundant in loving kindness to all those who call on you. 6Hear, Yahweh, my prayer. Listen to the voice of my petitions. 7In the day of my trouble I will call on you, for you will answer me. 8There is no one like you among the gods, Lord, nor any deeds like your deeds. 9All nations you have made will come and worship before you, Lord. They shall glorify your name. 10For you are great, and do wondrous things. You are God alone. 11Teach me your way, Yahweh. I will walk in your truth. Make my heart undivided to fear your name. 12I will praise you, Lord my God, with my whole heart. I will glorify your name forever more. 13For your loving kindness is great toward me. You have delivered my soul from the lowest Sheol. 14God, the proud have risen up against me. A company of violent men have sought after my soul, and they don’t hold regard for you before them. 15But you, Lord, are a merciful and gracious God, slow to anger, and abundant in loving kindness and truth. 16Turn to me, and have mercy on me! Give your strength to your servant. Save the son of your servant. 17Show me a sign of your goodness, that those who hate me may see it, and be shamed, because you, Yahweh, have helped me, and comforted me.
World English Bible (public domain)
“For you, O Lord, are good and forgiving, abounding in steadfast love to all who call upon you.”
Psalms 86:5
Summary
Psalms 86 is a heartfelt prayer by David, expressing deep dependence on God amidst adversity. The chapter begins with a plea for God's ear, acknowledging His unique ability to protect and save those who are devoted to Him. David emphasizes his trust and constant reliance on God, highlighting feelings of distress and a desire for divine mercy and strength. As the prayer unfolds, David reflects on God's unparalleled greatness and sovereignty, calling upon God's gracious character to forgive and help him with renewed confidence in God's faithfulness. The chapter culminates in a request for a sign of God's goodwill, demonstrating David's deep trust and commitment to glorifying God’s name.
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