Matthew Henry’s Modern English CommentaryPsalms 86

A Prayer of DavidThis psalm is called a prayer of David. It is different from many other psalms because its language is simple and direct. There are not many poetic words or images here. Instead, it is honest and plain, showing that true prayer does not need fancy words. David teaches us to bring our deepest needs to God, trusting Him to listen and help.v. 1: David asks God to listen to him. He says, Bow down your ear, O Lord

v. 2: He asks God to protect him and save him. Preserve my soul, for I am holy; O you my God, save your servant who trusts in you . David is God's servant, and he trusts God completely. He wants God to keep his soul safe, both from danger and from sin.

v. 3: David pleads for God's mercy. Be merciful to me, O Lord

v. 4: He asks God to fill him with joy. Rejoice the soul of your servant, for to you, O Lord

v. 5: David reminds God that He is always good and ready to forgive. For you, Lord

v. 6: He repeats his request for God to listen. Give ear, O Lord

v. 7: David promises to call on God in times of trouble. In the day of my trouble I will call upon you, for you will answer me . He trusts that God will hear him and help, even when things are hard. David knows that other gods cannot answer, but the true God always listens (1 Kings 18:29 ).

Petitions and Praises; Prayer for Mercy and GraceDavid continues his prayer in this section. He mixes praise with his requests, showing us that prayer should include both asking and worshipping. David praises God for His greatness, goodness, and unique power. He also asks for God’s help, guidance, and mercy, especially when facing enemies and trouble. David’s words remind us that God is both worthy of all praise and ready to help those who trust in Him.v. 8: David says, Among the gods there is none like you, O Lord

v. 9: David continues, All nations whom you have made shall come and worship before you, O Lord

v. 10: He says, For you are great, and do wondrous things; you alone are God . God’s greatness is seen in the amazing things He does. No one else is truly God. Only the Lord

v. 11: David prays, Teach me your way, O Lord

v. 12: David promises, I will praise you, O Lord

v. 13: He explains why he praises God: For great is your mercy toward me, and you have delivered my soul from the lowest hell . God’s mercy saved David from deep trouble and even from death. David knows he does not deserve this kindness, but God’s mercy is very great.

v. 14: David tells God about his enemies. O God, the proud have risen against me, and a mob of violent men have sought my life, and have not set you before them . His enemies are proud and violent, and they do not respect God. They gather together to harm David, but he trusts God to protect him.

v. 15: David remembers God’s character: But you, O Lord

v. 16: He asks, Oh, turn to me, and have mercy on me! Give your strength to your servant, and save the son of your maidservant . David wants God to show him kindness and give him strength. He reminds God that he belongs to Him, just like a child born in God’s house.

v. 17: Finally, David prays, Show me a sign for good, that those who hate me may see it and be ashamed, because you, Lord