Psalms 56

Psalm 56#sn Psalm 56. Despite the threats of his enemies, the psalmist is confident the Lord will keep his promise to protect and deliver him.

For the music director; according to the yonath-elem-rechovim style;#tn The literal meaning of this phrase is “silent dove, distant ones.” Perhaps it refers to a particular style of music, a tune title, or a type of musical instrument. a prayer#tn The precise meaning of the Hebrew word מִכְתָּם (miktam), which also appears in the heading to Pss 16 and 57-60 is uncertain. HALOT 582-83 s.v. defines it as “inscription.” of David, written when the Philistines captured him in Gath.#sn According to the superscription, David wrote this psalm when the Philistines seized him and took him to King Achish of Gath (see 1 Sam 21:11-15).

1Have mercy on me, O God, for men are attacking me! All day long hostile enemies are tormenting me.

2Those who anticipate my defeat attack me all day long. Indeed, many are fighting against me, O Exalted One.

3When I am afraid, I trust in you.

4In God – I boast in his promise – in God I trust, I am not afraid. What can mere men do to me?

5All day long they cause me trouble; they make a habit of plotting my demise.

6They stalk and lurk; they watch my every step, as they prepare to take my life.

7Because they are bent on violence, do not let them escape! In your anger bring down the nations, O God!

8You keep track of my misery. Put my tears in your leather container! Are they not recorded in your scroll?

9My enemies will turn back when I cry out to you for help; I know that God is on my side.

10In God – I boast in his promise – in the Lord – I boast in his promise –

11in God I trust, I am not afraid. What can mere men do to me?

12I am obligated to fulfill the vows I made to you, O God; I will give you the thank-offerings you deserve,

13when you deliver my life from death. You keep my feet from stumbling, so that I might serve God as I enjoy life.