For the choirmaster. With stringed instruments. Of David.
ⓘIn these royal prayers, the psalmist longs for...
In these royal prayers, the psalmist longs for God’s presence. All three psalms concern themselves with the king’s security.
ⓘThe lamenting psalmist petitions God to protect him...
The lamenting psalmist petitions God to protect him and lead him into his presence (61:4–5). He prays for God to extend and protect the king’s rule and makes vows to praise God.
1Hear my cry, O God;attend to my prayer.2From the ends of the earth I call out to Youwhenever my heart is faint.Lead me to the rockthat is higher than I.3For You have been my refuge,a tower of strength against the enemy.4Let me dwell in Your tent foreverand take refuge in the shelter of Your wings.Selah5For You have heard my vows, O God;You have given me the inheritancereserved for those whofear Your name.6Increase the days of the king’s life;may his years span many generations.7May he sit enthroned in God’s presence forever;appoint Your loving devotionand Your faithfulness to guard him.8Then I will ever sing praise to Your nameand fulfill my vows day by day.
Commentary
Psalms 61:2
the ends of the earth: This expression has the connotation of a cry that comes from a place far away from God.
The psalmist’s heart is overwhelmed with deep anguish.
The poet longs for God’s presence and seeks entrance into God’s home on earth for divine protection and care. To be received into God’s sanctuary (literally tent) is the greatest good (see 15:1; 23:6; 24:3–6). The Hebrew word translated sanctuary recalls the Tabernacle and the tent that David built for the Ark (1 Chr 15:1). See also study note on John 1:14.
The shelter of your wings symbolizes God’s protection and care (see Pss 9:9; 17:8).
Commentary
Psalms 61:5
you have heard my vows: The psalmist’s vows might also be a part of ceremonial sacrifices (66:13–15; 76:11; 116:14, 18). He praises and thanks God for his rescue.
The inheritance refers to the promise of the land (see Ps 60), the sacredness of the Temple, the joy of God’s presence (119:111), or any similar reward (16:6; 37:9, 11, 18, 22, 29, 34; 127:3).
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