Tyndale Open Study NotesPsalms 28

These psalms develop the importance of:

• integrity (Psalms 25:4–7, 12–14, 21; 26:6, 11; 27:7–12),

• God's care as a shepherd (Psalms 23:1; 28:9),

• God's guidance (Psalms 23:2–3; 25:5; 27:11),

• God's goodness (Psalms 23:6; 25:7–8; 27:13), and

• living in his house (Psalms 23:6; 26:8; 27:4, 8).

The psalmist asks the Lord to listen. His urgent request comes from the tension between his close relationship with the Lord and the trouble he is facing.

In this personal lament, the psalmist asks for justice and mercy. He trusts in the Lord's strength and faithfulness and prays for the Lord's people.

if You remain silent: The psalmist asks the Lord to act (Psalm 35:22; 50:3; 83:1; 109:1).

People often raised their hands as a sign of devoted prayer (Psalms 63:4; 134:2).

The psalmist asks God to punish his enemies and prove his innocence.

The wicked do not acknowledge the difference between the sacred and the common, so they have no respect for the Lord’s creation, redemption, or revelation.

The psalmist anticipates rescue because of his confidence in the Lord’s justice.

my strength and my shield: The Lord protects the psalmist (see Psalm 59:9, 17).

• The poem closes with intercession for the Lord’s people.

• bless Your inheritance: See Psalms 29:11; 133:3.