Psalms 56
1Be merciful to me, my God,for my enemies are in hot pursuit;all day long they press their attack. 2My adversaries pursue me all day long;in their pride many are attacking me. 3When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. 4In God, whose word I praise—in God I trust and am not afraid.What can mere mortals do to me? 5All day long they twist my words;all their schemes are for my ruin. 6They conspire, they lurk,they watch my steps,hoping to take my life. 7Because of their wickedness do not let them escape;in your anger, God, bring the nations down. 8Record my misery;list my tears on your scroll—are they not in your record? 9Then my enemies will turn backwhen I call for help.By this I will know that God is for me. 10In God, whose word I praise,in the Lord, whose word I praise— 11in God I trust and am not afraid.What can man do to me? 12I am under vows to you, my God;I will present my thank offerings to you. 13For you have delivered me from deathand my feet from stumbling,that I may walk before Godin the light of life.
Study Context for Psalms 56
As you study Psalms 56, keep in mind the overarching themes of this old testament book: Worship, Lament, Praise. Observe how the specific events or teachings in this chapter contribute to the book's broader message.
WorshipLamentPraise
Observation: What does Psalms 56 reveal about the character and nature of God? What does it reveal about humanity?
Application: How does the truth presented in this chapter change how you should live, think, or pray today?
Study introductions and prompts are supplementary aids, not Scripture. They do not replace prayerful reading, the authority of Scripture, a faithful local church, or pastoral care.
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