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Psalm 4:1-3
New Catholic Bible
Psalm 4:1-3
New Catholic Bible
Psalm 4[a]
Joyful Confidence in God
1 For the director.[b] With stringed instruments. A psalm of David.
2 When I call upon you, answer me, O God,
you who uphold my rights.
When I was in distress, you set me free;
have pity on me and listen to my prayer.
3 How long[c] will you people turn my glory into shame,
cherishing what is worthless and pursuing what is false? Selah
Footnotes
- Psalm 4:1 Those who are well established in life delude themselves by seeking happiness in riches and worldly vanities. The psalmist, rich in divine trust and joy, invites them to discover the price of God’s friendship: “the light of [God’s] face.” This is an evening prayer (see vv. 5, 9), filled with desire for God; Christians move beyond its earthly perspectives. Prayer brings openness of heart, assurance of God’s help, faith, divine approval, joy, and peace.
- Psalm 4:1 For the director: these words are thought to be a musical or liturgical notation.
- Psalm 4:3 How long . . . ?: see note on Ps 6:4.
