1
Hear me when I call, O God of my righteousness: thou hast enlarged me when I was in distress; have mercy upon me, and hear my prayer.
2
O ye sons of men, how long will ye turn my glory into shame? how long will ye love vanity, and seek after leasing? Selah.
3
But know that the LORD hath set apart him that is godly for himself: the LORD will hear when I call unto him.
4
Stand in awe, and sin not: commune with your own heart upon your bed, and be still. Selah.
5
Offer the sacrifices of righteousness, and put your trust in the LORD.
6
There be many that say, Who will shew us any good? LORD, lift thou up the light of thy countenance upon us.
7
Thou hast put gladness in my heart, more than in the time that their corn and their wine increased.
8
I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, LORD, only makest me dwell in safety.
Psalms 4 Study & Commentary
Overview & Chapter Summary
Psalm 4 is an evening prayer for safety and peace. David calls upon the God of his righteousness, warning men to stand in awe and sin not, and declaring that God puts gladness in his heart more than wine or corn.
Theological Context & Insights
CONTEMPORARY APPLICATIONS
1. Communing with the Heart: We are told to "commune with your own heart upon your bed, and be still" (v. 4). Silence and self-reflection are essential for spiritual health.
2. The Source of True Joy: Gladness from God is superior to material abundance (v. 7). Internal peace is more valuable than external prosperity.
3. Safe Sleep: Because God makes us dwell in safety, we can lay down in peace and sleep. Trusting God is the best remedy for anxiety.
Practical Lessons & Daily Application
FORMAL PRAYER
Hear us when we call, O God of our righteousness. Put Thy gladness in our hearts and grant us the peace to sleep securely, knowing that Thou alone makest us dwell in safety. Amen.