PSALM 4

To the chief Musician on Neginoth, A Psalm of David.

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.

Once again the psalmist speaks of a time of trouble and yet even in the midst of that trouble God made room for him [v.1]. Based on God's character and previous actions he fully expected God to have mercy and answer prayer.

Though men prefer vanity and lies God sets apart the godly for Himself. So the psalmist says in effect, "Even in trouble... Pray, be amazed at God, do right, encourage your heart in the Lord as you rest and let God work! (Too often we want to rush ahead of God). Offer God a pure life and trust Him to take care of the rest."

Verses 6-8 is a short prayer of for God's blessing, a recognition of what God has done and the benefit derived from His watch care. Oh that we would do likewise!