Overview: (NET) Psalm 4. The psalmist asks God to hear his prayer, expresses his confidence that the Lord will intervene, and urges his enemies to change their ways and place their trust in God. He concludes with another prayer for divine intervention and again affirms his absolute confidence in God’s protection.
Background: Laments of Individuals:
( Walton )
Roughly one-third of the psalms are laments (complaints or cries to God for help) uttered by the individual. Given the painful experiences of human life, this is not surprising; and this experience expressed itself in prayers to [God].
Individuals sensed guilt and divine abandonment ( 6:1, 3; 13:1; 32:4–5; 51:1, 5); they felt physical suffering (22:14, 17; 38:2–3), emotional pain and shame ( 6:6; 25:2), and loss of friendship (31:11); and they faced death (16:10). At times their afflictions involved legal entanglements accompanied by slander and curses (17:2; 41:5–6; 62:4). They responded with cries for a divine hearing (55:17) and justice (Ps. 109).
Observation:
v.1 address to God
v.2-5 to his enemies (men)
v.6-8 to God
The interesting part is the middle section when David addressed to his enemies. At first he described how bad his enemies treat him v.2a
how long will you try to turn my honor into shame?
But, that's all. From v.2b-5 he was teaching his enemies. First he asked them to reflect themselves, v.2b-c
How long will you love what is worthless
and search for what is deceptive?
NET, "It is more likely that the psalmist addresses those who threaten him (see v. 1) and refers in a general way to their sinful lifestyle. The two terms allude to the fact that sinful behavior is ultimately fruitless and self-destructive."
Then David taught them to realize Who God is and how to worship Him v.3-5
4:3 Realize that the LORD shows the godly special favor;
the LORD responds when I cry out to him.
4:4 Tremble with fear and do not sin!
Meditate as you lie in bed, and repent of your ways!
(Selah)
4:5 Offer the prescribed sacrifices
and trust in the LORD!
NET, v. 4 The psalmist warns his enemies that they need to tremble with fear before God and repudiate their sinful ways. v.5 Trust in the LORD. The psalmist urges his enemies to make peace with God and become his followers.
Whether the enemies listened to David or not we do not know. Before they did anything David changed before the end of the Psalm.
v.7 "You make me happier," v.8 "I will lie down and sleep peacefully, for you, LORD, make me safe and secure." (NET, the Lord keeps enemies away from the psalmist so that he is safe and secure).
Reflection: Have you slept well lately? Do you have their peace in your heart when the world seems turning upside? Before the crisis is over you are not afraid?
On the other hand, we can ask God to intervene in our situation today. Let's pray together with v.6
Many say, “Who can show us anything good?”
Smile upon us, LORD!
(NET, Smile upon us. Though many are discouraged, the psalmist asks the Lord to intervene and transform the situation).
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