Context:
• While the context for this prayer is unknown, the language used throughout the psalm indicated that it is similar to that of Psalm 3.
• In addition, there are people in Israel accusing David
4:1 - Answer me when I call, God, who vindicates me. You freed me from affliction; be gracious to me and hear my prayer.
• David’s dependency is on God.
• He calls him to act in accordance with his character (generosity).
4:2 – How long, exalted ones, will my honor be insulted? How long will you love what is worthless?
• Exalted Ones (sons of man) with high social status.
• They are attacking David’s character and reputation.
• Why do the nations rage?
4:5 - Offer sacrifices in righteousness and trust in the LORD
• Here David is challenging those who did not forsake / abandon him to live a life of righteousness before God.
• He encourages them to make sacrifices in the right heart.
• He encourages them to trust in God.
• He encourages them to not sin.
4:6a – Many are asking, Who can show us anything good?
• In response to the natural disaster, many Israelites are turning to idols and making sacrifices (why do the nations rage?)
• They are giving their allegiance over to anyone who can answer the question, who can show us some good? (Verse 6)
4:7 – You have put more joy in my heart than they have when their grain and new wine abound…
• David’s response is to be silent before the Lord, to fear the Lord and to trust the Lord. His response allows him to lie down in peace.
• David has more joy in God during the famine than those who live without God at a rich banquet.
4:6b – Let the light of your face shine on us (NLT – Smile on us)
2 Corinthians 4:6 - For God who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of God’s glory in the face of Jesus Christ.”
• The text is telling us that the Person of Jesus is God smiling at us. (He loves us even though some of us won’t return that love, ever).
