Psalms
Summary
Psalm 57 is a prayer written by David when he fled from Saul into a cave. He seeks refuge in the "shadow of your wings" until the "calamities" pass over. David describes his soul as being "among lions" whose teeth are spears and arrows, but he remains steadfast in his praise. The psalm features a recurring chorus: "Be thou exalted, O God, above the heavens; let thy glory be above all the earth." It describes the enemies falling into the very pit they digged for David and ends with a determined resolution to "awake the dawn" with songs of praise for God's mercy and truth.
Be merciful to me, O God, be merciful to me; for my soul trusts in you; yes, in the shadow of your wings I will make my refuge until these calamities are passed.
I will cry to God Most High; to God who performs all things for me.
He shall send from heaven and save me from the reproach of him who would swallow me up. Selah. God shall send forth his mercy and his truth.
My soul is among lions; and I lie even among those who are set on fire, even the sons of men, whose teeth are spears and arrows, and their tongue a sharp sword.
Be exalted, O God, above the heavens; let your glory be above all the earth.
They have prepared a net for my steps; my soul is bowed down; they have digged a pit before me, into the midst of which they have fallen themselves. Selah.
My heart is fixed, O God, my heart is fixed; I will sing and give praise.
Awake, my glory; awake, psaltery and harp; I myself will awake the dawn.
I will praise you, Lord, among the peoples; I will sing to you among the nations.
For your mercy is great to the heavens, and your truth to the clouds.
Be exalted, O God, above the heavens; let your glory be above all the earth.