We can’t be certain of the exact circumstances that prompted David to write Psalm 4, but there is a sense of community crisis. In our own season of pandemic upheaval, Psalm 4 models an evening prayer that invites us to end each day in hope. We can build our confidence in God through a rhythm of reviewing our days in the light of His gaze.
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Psalm 4
Psalm 4 [a]
1 Answer me when I call to you, my righteous God. Give me relief from my distress; have mercy on me and hear my prayer.
2 How long will you people turn my glory into shame? How long will you love delusions and seek false gods[b]?[c]
3 Know that the Lord has set apart his faithful servant for himself; the Lord hears when I call to him.
4 Tremble and[d] do not sin; when you are on your beds, search your hearts and be silent.
5 Offer the sacrifices of the righteous and trust in the Lord.
6 Many, Lord, are asking, “Who will bring us prosperity?” Let the light of your face shine on us.
7 Fill my heart with joy when their grain and new wine abound.
8 In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety.
Footnotes:
[a] In Hebrew texts 4:1-8 is numbered 4:2-9.
[b] Or seek lies
[c] The Hebrew has Selah (a word of uncertain meaning) here and at the end of verse 4.
[d] Or In your anger (see Septuagint)
Reviewing Your Day: Prayer of Examen Using Psalm 4
WELCOME GOD’S PRESENCE:
(Hands Open, Palms Up)
- Quiet yourself (take several deep breaths) and focus your thoughts on God.
- You may want to begin with a phrase from Psalm 4:
- Answer me when I call to you, O God.
- Give me relief from distress.
- Be merciful to me.
- Hear my prayer.
LOOK FOR GOD’S BLESSINGS:
(Thumbs Up)
- When did I feel the most alive today? When did I feel closest to God? What was I most grateful for today?
- Review David’s words from Psalm 4:
- Let the light of your face shine on us, God.
- You have filled my heart with great joy.
- Thank God for His goodness.
SEEK GOD’S HELP & FORGIVENESS:
(Thumbs Down)
- When did I feel life draining out of me? When did I feel farthest from God? What was I least grateful for today?
- Psalm 4 uses these words:
- Search your hearts and be silent.
- Offer right sacrifices to God; trust in God.
- Ask God for forgiveness and help.
LOOK AHEAD FOR GOD’S LEADING:
(Hands Open, Palms Up)
- Rest in God as you close your day.
- Remember David’s words in Psalm 4:
- I will lie down in peace.
- You alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.
- Ask God for what you need in the day to come.
