Psalm 142
Refuge in despair
The psalmist pours out complaint to the Lord, confessing overwhelming despair and isolation from all earthly help; he calls for deliverance from persecutors stronger than himself and promises praise for God's bounty.
7 verses. The 142nd of 150 chapters in Psalms, in Poetry and Wisdom.
1A contemplation by David, when he was in the cave. A Prayer. I cry with my voice to the LORD. With my voice, I ask the LORD for mercy.
2I pour out my complaint before him. I tell him my troubles.
3When my spirit was overwhelmed within me, you knew my route. On the path in which I walk, they have hidden a snare for me.
4Look on my right, and see; for there is no one who is concerned for me. Refuge has fled from me. No one cares for my soul.
5I cried to you, LORD. I said, “You are my refuge, my portion in the land of the living.”
6Listen to my cry, for I am in desperate need. Deliver me from my persecutors, for they are too strong for me.
7Bring my soul out of prison, that I may give thanks to your name. The righteous will surround me, for you will be good to me.
Matthew Henry on Psalm 142
2,010 words, in 2 passages.
World English Bible. Public domain. Set as prose throughout, including the poetry, because the text is published to us without its lines.