Psalm 142
Summary of Psalms
Composed of 150 Hebrew poems. 73 of them were written by David.
Scholars say the Psalms are broken into 5 sections with an introduction and an ending. The ending is 5 chapters that end in praise to our God.
Lament and praise are the main expressions in Psalms. Lament is an appropriate response to the evil that we see in the world. While praise expresses joy and celebration of the goodness of God.
“With my voice, I cry out to the Lord; with my voice, I plead for mercy to the Lord. I pour out my complaint before him; I tell my trouble before him” – Psalm142:1-2
“Caves make good closets for prayer; their gloom and solitude are helpful to the exercise of devotion. Had David prayed as much in his palace as he did in his cave, he might never have fallen into the act which brought such misery upon his later days.” – Charles Spurgeon
“When my spirit faints within me, you know my way! In the path where I walk they have hidden a trap for me. Look to the right and see: there is none who takes notice of me; no refuge remains to me; no one cares for my soul.” – Psalm142:3-4
“I cry to you, O Lord; I say, ‘You are my refuge, my portion in the land of the living.’”– Psalm142:5
“Attend to my cry for I am brought very low Deliver me from my persecutors, for they are too strong for me! Bring me out of prison, that I may give thanks to your name! The righteous will surround me, for you will deal bountifully with me.”– Psalm 142:6-7
The story of David isn't one that celebrates only mountain tops; It's one that shows the practical struggles and God still being faithful to us.
Spiritual Practice
Lament and praise. Take time to grieve the hard and trying times. But also give thanks and praise to God in the bad and good.
