Psalms 69 Explained – Verse by Verse Commentary

The True Meaning of Psalms 69

The Book of Psalms is a collection of sacred songs and prayers attributed to King David, the second king of ancient Israel. Psalm 69 is one of the most well-known and poignant of these psalms, as it reflects the anguish and persecution that David faced during his tumultuous reign. David’s cries for help as he finds himself in the midst of a personal crisis are witnessed in this chapter. He is sinking in the miry depths, facing the scorn and ridicule of his enemies, and feeling abandoned by God. Yet, even in his darkest hour, David’s faith remains steadfast, and he turns to the Lord for deliverance and vindication.

The themes of this psalm resonate throughout the Scriptures, echoing the experiences of other biblical figures, such as Joseph, who was betrayed by his own brothers (Genesis 37), and the suffering servant described in Isaiah 53. These parallels remind us that the trials and tribulations faced by the faithful are not unique, but rather a common thread that binds us together in our shared journey of faith.

Psalms 69 is a chapter that contains 36 verses. Here is a breakdown of the chapter into relevant sections:

1. The psalmist cries out to God for deliverance in these verses. He describes his distress and the feeling of being overwhelmed by his troubles. This section highlights the psalmist’s vulnerability and desperation as he pleads for God’s intervention.

2. Verse 5-8:
   The psalmist acknowledges his own faults and sins, recognizing that his current predicament may be a result of his own wrongdoing. Despite this, he appeals to God’s mercy and steadfast love, expressing his trust in God’s salvation.

3. Verse 9-12:
   Here, the psalmist laments how his devotion to God has made him a target of ridicule and scorn from others. He describes how he has become an outcast among his own people, emphasizing the loneliness and rejection he feels.

4. Verse 13-18:
   The psalmist continues to articulate his distress, describing how he is surrounded by enemies who seek to harm him. He pleads for God’s deliverance and asks for God’s mercy to rescue him from his troubles.

5. The psalmist prays for God’s judgment upon his enemies in this section. He calls upon God to bring justice to those who have wronged him, emphasizing his trust in God’s righteousness and faithfulness.

6. Verse 29-36:
   The psalm concludes with a shift in tone, as the psalmist transitions from lament to praise. He expresses his confidence in God’s provision and salvation, declaring his intention to praise God with thanksgiving. This section serves as a reminder of the psalmist’s unwavering faith in God’s goodness and deliverance. We will delve deeper into these sections to uncover the underlying messages and insights from this powerful psalm now that we have broken down the chapter.

God’s salvation can protect me, as for me, afflicted and in pain, in Psalms 69:29. The psalmist acknowledges their own state of affliction and pain in the first part of the verse. This sets the tone for the psalm as a whole, which is a cry for help and deliverance from the psalmist who is facing challenges and opposition.

The psalmist’s plea for salvation in the second part of the verse highlights a central theme in the book of Psalms: the unwavering faith in God’s ability to deliver and save His people in times of trouble. The psalmist expresses trust in God’s power to protect and rescue them from their afflictions.

Throughout the book of Psalms, there are numerous examples of individuals who faced adversity and turned to God for help. One such example is King David, who composed many of the psalms found in the book. David faced many trials and tribulations in his life, including battles with his enemies and struggles within his own family. Despite these challenges, David consistently turned to God for strength and deliverance. The psalmist in Psalms 69 uses vivid imagery to depict their suffering and calls upon God to intervene on their behalf. This psalm serves as a reminder that it is appropriate to bring our troubles and burdens before God, knowing that He is our ultimate source of help and salvation. The psalmist’s words also point to the importance of faith and perseverance in difficult times, trusting that God is faithful to His promises to His people.

The message of seeking God’s salvation and protection is echoed throughout the Bible. The apostle Paul writes about the importance of putting on the full armor of God to stand firm against the schemes of the devil in the New Testament (Ephesians 6:10-18). This spiritual armor includes elements like the breastplate of righteousness and the shield of faith, emphasizing the need for believers to trust in God’s salvation and protection in the midst of spiritual battles. Psalms 69:29 captures the essence of the psalmist’s plea for rescue and protection in the face of affliction and pain. It serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of turning to God in times of trouble and relying on His salvation to sustain us through life’s challenges.

Psalms 69:1-4

The psalmist in Psalms 69:1-4 begins by crying out to God in distress, saying, “Save me, O God! For the waters have come up to my neck. I sink in deep mire, where there is no foothold; I have come into deep waters, and the flood sweeps over me. I am weary with my crying out; my throat is parched. My eyes grow dim with waiting for my God.” This passage vividly portrays the psalmist’s desperate situation, feeling overwhelmed and drowning in troubles. The deep waters symbolize the trials and tribulations the psalmist is facing, using water as a metaphor for the chaos and anguish in his life.

The psalmist’s plea for God to save them reflects a central theme throughout the Bible – trust and reliance on God during times of trouble. This cry for help is a powerful reminder that even in our darkest moments, we can turn to God for deliverance and salvation. It is a demonstration of the psalmist’s faith that despite the overwhelming circumstances, they still place their hope in God.

This passage also resonates with the experiences of other biblical figures who faced immense challenges. For example, in the book of Job, Job goes through tremendous suffering and loss, yet he remains faithful to God, showcasing unwavering trust. The story of Joseph in the book of Genesis also highlights a similar theme, where he endures betrayal and hardship but ultimately finds redemption through God’s providence. These narratives serve as examples of perseverance in faith amidst trials and serve to inspire readers to follow suit.

The psalmist’s lament in Psalms 69:1-4 also underscores the importance of patience and endurance in the face of adversity. Despite feeling weary and drained from crying out to God, the psalmist continues to wait for Him. This waiting period symbolizes the testing of faith and the need for perseverance. The book of James in the New Testament encourages believers to “consider it pure joy.”..whenever you face trials of many kinds because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance” (James 1:2-3). This ties back to the psalmist’s struggle and waiting, showcasing how trials can lead to spiritual growth and maturity. Psalms 69:1-4 serves as a poignant reminder of the power of prayer, faith in God during adversity, and the importance of perseverance in times of trouble. This passage resonates with readers across generations, as the struggle of the psalmist reflects the universal human experience of facing challenges and seeking divine intervention for deliverance.

Psalms 69:5-12

The psalmist in Psalm 69:5-12 expresses his feelings of being overwhelmed by his troubles and the hostility of his enemies. Let’s break this down:

Verse 5: “You, God, know my folly; my guilt is not hidden from you.” Here, the psalmist acknowledges that God knows his shortcomings and sins. This verse reflects the psalmist’s humility and recognition of God’s omniscience. It is a reminder that we can’t hide anything from God, and it encourages us to be honest and repentant before Him. This idea is echoed in Jeremiah 16:17, where it says, “My eyes are on all their ways; they are not hidden from me, nor is their sin concealed from my eyes.”

Verse 6: “Lord, the Lord Almighty, may those who hope in you not be disgraced because of me; God of Israel, may those who seek you not be put to shame because of me.” Here, the psalmist displays a deep concern for the reputation of God’s name and the well-being of his fellow believers. He prays that his own struggles and failures would not cause others to stumble or lose faith. This shows a heart that is focused on the glory of God and the welfare of the community of faith. It highlights the importance of our actions and how they can impact others spiritually, reinforcing the biblical principle of living a life that is honorable and pleasing to God, as seen in Matthew 5:16.

Verse 7-9: “For I endure scorn for your sake, and shame covers my face. I am a foreigner to my own family, a stranger to my own mother’s children; for zeal for your house consumes me, and the insults of those who insult you fall on me. The psalmist describes the deep alienation and rejection he experiences because of his devotion to God in these verses. He is willing to endure shame and ostracism because of his unwavering commitment to God’s house and his zeal for the Lord. This depiction of suffering for the sake of righteousness resonates with the experiences of many biblical figures, such as Job, who endured great trials while remaining faithful to God, and the prophets who faced persecution for speaking the truth.

Verse 10-12: “When I weep and fast, I must endure scorn; when I put on sackcloth, people make sport of me. Those who sit at the gate mock me, and I am the song of the drunkards.” These verses portray the psalmist’s experience of being derided and ridiculed by those around him. His expression of grief and repentance is met with mockery and contempt. Despite his genuine sorrow and attempts to seek God through fasting and mourning, he is met with scorn and ridicule. This speaks to the harsh reality of facing opposition and ridicule for one’s faith and dedication to God. It reflects the challenges and persecution that believers may face in a fallen world, as Jesus Himself warned his disciples in John 15:18-20 about being hated by the world because of Him. Psalm 69:5-12 captures the heartfelt plea and struggles of the psalmist as he navigates through adversity, opposition, and feelings of isolation. It showcases the tension between personal suffering and unwavering faith in God, inviting readers to reflect on the dynamics of human weakness and divine strength. The psalmist’s honesty and vulnerability in expressing his emotions serve as a powerful reminder that it is okay to bring our pain, doubts, and struggles before God, trusting in His grace and faithfulness.

Psalms 69:13-18

The psalmist is pouring out his heart to God in a time of great distress and persecution in Psalms 69:13-18. Let’s break this down into sections for a more in-depth commentary:

Verse 13: “But as for me, my prayer is to you, O Lord. At an acceptable time, O God, in the abundance of your steadfast love answer me in your saving faithfulness.”

Here, the psalmist is expressing his confidence in God despite his current hardships. He acknowledges that his only hope is in God’s steadfast love and saving faithfulness. This verse underscores the psalmist’s unwavering faith in God’s timing and trust that God will ultimately answer his prayers.

The psalmist’s plea for God’s response at an “acceptable time” reflects a recognition of God’s sovereignty and his submission to God’s divine timing. This demonstrates an important aspect of faith, where believers learn to trust in God’s perfect timing, even when circumstances seem dire.

Verse 14: “Deliver me from sinking in the mire; let me be delivered from my enemies and from the deep waters. The psalmist in this verse vividly describes his perilous situation. The image of sinking in the mire and being surrounded by deep waters symbolizes the overwhelming nature of his troubles. The psalmist is crying out to God for deliverance from both physical and spiritual enemies.

This desperation for deliverance from enemies, both seen and unseen, echoes throughout the Bible in instances where individuals, such as David facing Goliath or Moses leading the Israelites out of Egypt, relied on God’s deliverance from impossible situations. This verse serves to remind believers that God is their ultimate rescuer in times of trouble.

Verse 15: “Let not the flood sweep over me, or the deep swallow me up, or the pit close its mouth over me.”

Here, the psalmist continues to paint a picture of the dangers he is facing, using the metaphor of a flood ready to overwhelm him. The imagery of being swallowed up by the deep or trapped in a pit conveys the sense of imminent destruction and hopelessness.

The concept of being overwhelmed by life’s troubles is a recurring theme in the Bible. We see numerous examples of individuals facing overwhelming odds, like Noah surviving the flood or Jonah in the belly of the great fish, where their only source of deliverance was God’s intervention. This verse emphasizes the psalmist’s vulnerability and utter dependence on God for rescue.

Verse 16: “Answer me, O Lord, for your steadfast love is good; according to your abundant mercy, turn to me. The psalmist in this verse appeals to God’s character of steadfast love and mercy as the basis for his plea for help. The psalmist is not appealing to God based on his own merit or deeds but on God’s inherent goodness and compassion.

Throughout the Bible, God’s steadfast love and abundant mercy are highlighted as central aspects of His nature. Time and again, we see God’s faithfulness in responding to His people’s cries for help, not because they deserve it, but because of His unfailing love. This verse underscores the psalmist’s understanding of God’s character and his confidence in God’s willingness to hear and respond to his prayer.

Verse 17: “Hide not your face from your servant, for I am in distress; make haste to answer me. The psalmist pleads for God’s presence and attention in the midst of his distress in this verse. The psalmist emphasizes the urgency of his situation and implores God not to turn away from him in his time of need.

The psalmist’s cry for God not to hide His face reflects a common theme in the Bible where individuals sought God’s presence and guidance during times of trouble. For instance, Moses often pleaded with God not to leave the Israelites, and David cried out for God’s presence even in his darkest moments. This verse highlights the psalmist’s deep desire for God’s immediate intervention and his reliance on God’s unfailing support.

Verse 18: “Draw near to my soul, redeem me; ransom me because of my enemies! The psalmist continues to beseech God in this final verse of the passage, asking Him to draw near, redeem him, and ransom him from his enemies. The psalmist is appealing to God for salvation and deliverance from the threats posed by his adversaries.

The concept of redemption and ransom from enemies carries rich symbolism throughout the Bible. We see foreshadowing of ultimate redemption and ransom in the person of Jesus Christ, who offered Himself as a ransom for many (Mark 10:45) to deliver humanity from the power of sin and death. This verse resonates with the overarching theme of God as the ultimate redeemer and deliverer of His people from all forms of bondage and oppression. Psalms 69:13-18 encapsulates the heartfelt cries of the psalmist in a time of distress, showcasing his unwavering faith in God’s faithfulness, steadfast love, and mercy. Through the psalmist’s plea for deliverance and redemption, believers are reminded of God’s sovereignty, His reliability in times of trouble, and the assurance that He is their ever-present help in times of need. This passage stands as a poignant reminder of the enduring truth that God hears the cries of His people and is ready to deliver them in His perfect timing.

Psalms 69:19-21

We can break down several important sections in Psalms 69:19-21 for a clearer understanding of the verses. Let’s interpret the meaning and significance of each of these sections in the context of Psalms 69 by delving into them.

Firstly, let’s look at verse 19: “You know how I am scorned, disgraced, and shamed; all my enemies are before you.” Here, the psalmist is expressing to God the depths of his suffering and humiliation at the hands of his enemies. He acknowledges that God is fully aware of his situation and the injustices he is facing. This verse reflects the psalmist’s vulnerability and his plea for God’s intervention in his time of need. This sentiment of facing scorn and shame is not uncommon in the Psalms. Throughout the book, there are many instances where the psalmists pour out their hearts to God, lamenting their troubles and seeking His help. This vulnerability and honesty in prayer serve as a powerful reminder for believers to turn to God in times of distress and trust in His sovereignty, even when faced with adversity.

Moving on to verse 20: “Scorn has broken my heart and has left me helpless; I looked for sympathy, but there was none, for comforters, but I found none.” Here, the psalmist expresses the depth of his despair and loneliness. He describes how the scorn he has endured has not only affected him externally but has also caused him great internal anguish, breaking his heart and leaving him feeling helpless. The psalmist’s cry for sympathy and comfort underscores the human need for support and understanding in times of trouble. This verse resonates with the experiences of many who have felt abandoned or isolated in their suffering. It serves as a reminder of the importance of compassion and empathy in our interactions with others, mirroring the biblical teachings of love, kindness, and bearing one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2).

Lastly, let’s consider verse 21: “They put gall in my food and gave me vinegar for my thirst.” This verse alludes to the mistreatment and cruelty the psalmist has faced at the hands of his enemies. The act of giving gall and vinegar to someone was a form of mocking and humiliation, as seen in the crucifixion of Jesus in the New Testament (Matthew 27:34). This imagery of offering bitterness and suffering to the psalmist reflects the depths of his affliction and the utter contempt shown towards him. Despite the psalmist’s distress, his words also echo the theme of endurance and faith in the face of adversity, as he continues to turn to God for deliverance and justice. This verse serves as a poignant reminder of the suffering endured not only by the psalmist but also by the righteous throughout history, pointing towards the ultimate fulfillment of redemption and victory in Christ. Psalms 69:19-21 captures the psalmist’s raw emotions of despair, loneliness, and suffering, while also highlighting his unwavering trust in God’s righteousness and deliverance. These verses resonate with the universal human experience of facing trials and tribulations, underscoring the importance of turning to God in prayer, seeking comfort and strength in His presence. The psalmist’s example of honesty and faith in the midst of adversity serves as a timeless reminder for believers to cling to God’s promises, even in the darkest of times, knowing that He hears their cries and will ultimately bring about justice and redemption.

Psalms 69:22-28

The verse in Psalms 69:22-28 can be broken down into several significant sections for deeper understanding.

Verse 22-23: “May their table become a snare; may it become retribution and a trap. May their eyes be darkened so they cannot see, and their backs be bent forever. The psalmist is invoking a curse upon their enemies in these verses. The imagery of a table becoming a snare recalls instances in the Old Testament where tables were places of both fellowship and betrayal. For example, Judas betrayed Jesus at the Last Supper, a meal shared at a table (Matthew 26:20-25). The psalmist’s wish for their enemies to experience retribution and become ensnared by their own actions reflects a common theme in the Bible – that those who plot evil will ultimately fall into their own trap. This aligns with the proverbs which states, “Whoever digs a pit will fall into it; if someone rolls a stone, it will roll back on them.” (Proverbs 26:27)

Verse 24-25: “Pour out your wrath on them; let your fierce anger overtake them. May their place be deserted; let there be no one to dwell in their tents.”

The psalmist is asking God to intervene and mete out justice on their enemies. This plea for divine retribution is common throughout the Bible, where individuals sought God’s help in dealing with their adversaries. The desire for their enemies’ homes to be empty highlights the severity of the wrath being called upon them. Being without a dwelling in the ancient Middle Eastern culture was a sign of desolation and abandonment. This aligns with other passages in the Bible, such as in Jeremiah 17:18 where the prophet calls for God’s vengeance on his persecutors.

Verse 26-28: “For they persecute those you wound and talk about the pain of those you hurt. Charge them with crime upon crime; do not let them share in your salvation. May they be blotted out of the book of life and not be listed with the righteous.”

The psalmist is describing how the enemies are not only harming them but also mocking and reveling in the suffering of others who are already afflicted. This is a common theme in the Bible where those who are close to God often find themselves persecuted by those who oppose God’s ways. The psalmist’s request for their enemies to be charged with repeated offenses is a plea for full accountability for their actions. The notion of being blotted out of the book of life is significant, as it signifies being cast out from God’s presence and blessings. This concept can be seen throughout the Bible, such as in Exodus 32:32-33 and Revelation 3:5, where the book of life is associated with salvation and righteousness. Psalms 69:22-28 reflects the psalmist’s deep anguish and desire for justice against their enemies. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of wickedness and the importance of seeking God’s intervention in times of trouble. The imagery and themes in these verses resonate throughout the Bible, illustrating the timeless message of God’s faithfulness in delivering justice to those who trust in Him.

Psalms 69:29-36

Psalms 69:29-36 says, “But as for me, afflicted and in pain— may your salvation, God, protect me. I will praise God’s name in song and glorify him with thanksgiving. This will please the Lord more than an ox, more than a bull with its horns and hooves. The poor will see and be glad— you who seek God, may your hearts live! The Lord hears the needy and does not despise his captive people. Let heaven and earth praise him, the seas and all that move in them, for God will save Zion and rebuild the cities of Judah. Then people will settle there and possess it; the children of his servants will inherit it, and those who love his name will dwell there. The Psalmist in the initial section of this passage describes his state of affliction and suffering, seeking God’s salvation and protection. This reflects a common theme in the Psalms, where the speaker often turns to God in times of distress, believing in His ability to deliver him from all troubles. The humility displayed by acknowledging one’s own affliction and pain but still holding onto faith in God’s saving power is a powerful testament to the Psalmist’s faith and resilience, as well as a lesson for readers to maintain their trust in God even in the midst of difficulties.

The Psalmist then expresses his intent to praise God’s name through song and thanksgiving, highlighting the importance of gratitude and worship as an integral part of the believer’s relationship with God. This act of praise is seen as more valuable to the Lord than material sacrifices like oxen or bulls, emphasizing the significance of sincere devotion and reverence over mere rituals. This echoes sentiments found in other parts of the Bible, such as in 1 Samuel 15:22 which says, “To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams.”

The passage further mentions the impact of the Psalmist’s praise on others, particularly the poor and those who seek God. The image of the poor finding joy and hope through witnessing the Psalmist’s faith and praise serves as a reminder of the communal aspect of faith and the potential for one’s actions of worship and gratitude to inspire and uplift others around them. It symbolizes the ripple effect of faith and how sharing one’s testimony of God’s goodness can bring comfort and encouragement to those in need.

God’s attentive care for the needy and His commitment to not forsake His people, even in captivity, is highlighted in the text. The assurance that the Lord hears the cries of the oppressed and does not disregard the plight of the captives showcases His justice and compassion, reinforcing the biblical theme of God’s concern for the downtrodden and His promise to deliver them from oppression, as seen throughout the Old Testament, especially in the narratives of the Israelites’ liberation from Egypt and subsequent exiles and returns.

The concluding verses of the passage resound with praise for God’s salvation and His plans to restore and rebuild Zion and the cities of Judah. This imagery of restoration and renewal reflects the biblical theme of God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promises and His power to bring about redemption and transformation. The inheritance of the land by the children of His servants and those who love His name symbolizes the eternal blessings and rewards awaiting those who remain faithful to God, echoing the message of God’s covenant with His people and His provision for their future.

After Psalms 69

The psalmist had poured out his heart, pleading for God’s salvation. He had been overwhelmed by the troubles that surrounded him, feeling as if he were sinking in deep waters. Yet, even in his distress, he had not lost hope. Instead, he had turned to the Lord, trusting in His unfailing love and steadfast presence. God is there, ready to lift us up and guide us through the storms of life, even in our darkest moments, as we move forward. The psalmist’s example reminds us that true strength comes not from our own abilities, but from the unwavering support of our Heavenly Father. We can find refuge in the arms of the Almighty, no matter what challenges we face.