Psalm 56

Commentary

The opening words of Psalm 56 set the tone for the entire chapter: "Be merciful to me, O God, for man would swallow me up; fighting all day he oppresses me" (v. 1). David is clearly in a difficult and fearful situation, facing enemies who seek to harm him. Yet, despite his fear, he does not turn away from God or despair. Instead, he cries out to God for mercy and expresses his trust in God's faithfulness: "In God I have put my trust; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?" (v. 4).As the chapter continues, David acknowledges the reality of his fear and the danger he is facing, but he continues to affirm his trust in God's protection and salvation. He recognizes that God is aware of his suffering and will not abandon him: "You number my wanderings; put my tears into Your bottle; are they not in Your book?" (v. 8).David's example in Psalm 56 is a powerful reminder that even in the face of fear and danger, we can choose to put our trust in God and His faithfulness. We can cry out to Him for mercy and find comfort in His presence, knowing that He sees us and will never abandon us.