Tyndale Open Study NotesPsalms 61

These psalms of David share a common theme. They reflect on the experience of evil. In Psalm 51, the psalmist admits his wrongdoing and asks for God's forgiveness. Psalms 52–64 express sorrow over specific evils David faced. A song of praise (Psalm 65) brings David's laments to an end.

In these royal prayers, the psalmist longs for God’s presence. All three psalms concern themselves with the king’s security.

The psalmist asks God to protect him and guide him into his presence (Psalm 61:4–5). He prays for God to extend and protect the king's rule and promises to praise God.

• the ends of the earth: This phrase suggests a cry that comes from a place far away from God.

• The psalmist feels deep sorrow and distress.

• The poet desires God's presence and seeks entry into God's earthly home for protection and care. Being welcomed into God's sanctuary (tent) is the greatest blessing (see Psalms 15:1; 23:6; 24:3–6). The Hebrew word for tent refers to the tabernacle and the tent David built for the ark (1 Chronicles 15:1). See also study note on John 1:14.

• The shelter of your wings represents God's protection and care (see Psalms 9:9; 17:8).

• You have heard my vows: The psalmist's vows might be part of ceremonial sacrifices (Psalms 66:13–15; 76:11; 116:14, 18). He praises and thanks God for rescuing him.

• The inheritance refers to the promise of the land (see Psalm 60), the sacredness of the temple, the joy of God's presence (Psalm 119:111), or any similar reward (Psalms 16:6; 37:9, 11, 18, 22, 29, 34; 127:3).