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Day 153

Psalm 55:1a "Give ear to my prayer, O God..."

Day 153 – Psalm 55

“Give ear to my prayer, O God…” Psalm 55:1a

SUPERSCRIPTION

To the Chief Musician. With stringed instruments. A Contemplation of David.

STANDARD FEATURES

Standard features are observed. No new idea is introduced in this superscription.

1. “To the Chief Musician”

All psalms were presented to the Chief Musician. His task was to archive as well as to teach the psalms that were presented to him by David and other psalmists.

2. “With stringed instruments”

These were basically harps. They could be used by themselves or with other accompanying musical instruments.

3. “A Contemplation of David”

David was given to much contemplation. Hence his psalms were always deep and contained many significant thoughts.

A PLAINTIVE CRY TO GOD

David began his psalm on a strong and plaintive note.

“Give ear to my prayer, O God,
And do not hide Yourself from my supplication.”
Psalm 55:1

1. “Give ear to my prayer, O God”

a) Once again, David addressed the Lord rather formally, calling Him, “O God”.
b) He pleads with God to give ear (“attention”) to his prayer.

2. “And do not hide Yourself from my supplication”

a) The word “supplication” suggests intensity of effort to pray.
b) David feared that God would “hide” Himself from his intense prayer efforts.
c) He pleads that God would hear and respond (opposite of “hide”) to his urgent prayer.

The circumstances of his life would seem to require immediate attention from God.