Psalm 4

To the leader: with stringed instruments. A Psalm of David.

Answer me when I call, O God of my right!

   You gave me room when I was in distress.

   Be gracious to me, and hear my prayer.

 

How long, you people, shall my honor suffer shame?

   How long will you love vain words, and seek after lies?

 But know that the Lord has set apart the faithful for himself;

   the Lord hears when I call to him.

 

When you are disturbed, do not sin;

   ponder it on your beds, and be silent.

Offer right sacrifices,

   and put your trust in the Lord.

 

There are many who say, ‘O that we might see some good!

   Let the light of your face shine on us, O Lord!’

You have put gladness in my heart

   more than when their grain and wine abound.

 

I will both lie down and sleep in peace;

   for you alone, O Lord, make me lie down in safety.

 

Comment:

This psalm, a prayer for deliverance from personal enemies, has its roots in the rituals used to call upon the judgment of the Divine—sacrifices are offered at the altar and, apparently, the petitioner spends a night alone in the temple. The psalmist is weary of trying to receive justice from men and is placing his entire trust in God. It is a useful reminder for us, as well. We can expend a lot of needless energy trying to convince others that our choices are just. It may work, or it may not. But if we are always clear and confident in our Oneness with the Divine, then we can have more gladness is our hearts than can be realized from material goods, and we can, indeed, "lie down and sleep in peace." 

Blessings!

Rev. Ed