Psalms
Chapter 61
2
Hear, O God, My Cry
Hear my cry, O God; listen to my prayer.
3
I call to you, from the ends of the earth; my heart grows faint. Set me high upon a rock;
4
be my refuge, a strong tower against the enemy.
5
Let me dwell in your tent, forever, and take refuge in your wings’ shelter.
6
Indeed, you have heard my vows, O God, and the wish of those who fear your name.
7
Increase the days of the king’s life; prolong his years for many generations.
8
May he ever be enthroned in God’s presence; let your love and loyalty watch over him.
9
So, I will sing praises to your name and fulfill my vows, day after day.
Commentaries
61
We are now examining emphatically personal psalms (61 to 64). However, this one appears to be intended for the king’s use. For Israel, when it remembered, the king was simply acting in God’s name to hold the kingdom. Two guards stood beside his throne; their names were ‘God’s Love’ and ‘God’s Protection.’ It must, however, be acknowledged that verses 2-6 sound like the reflection—almost mystical—of a faithful Israelite, and these have been offered to the king for his meditation. No one with any authority—and they must have some—can afford to ignore the Rock on which they stand.