What is the meaning of Psalm 86?

Psalm 86 is a heartfelt prayer attributed to David, expressing a deep sense of dependence on God. It is a beautiful piece of scripture that combines elements of praise, supplication, and trust. As we delve into its meaning, we will uncover the rich layers of devotion and theology embedded in this prayer.

Psalm 86 begins with an urgent plea for God’s attention and mercy:

"Incline your ear, O Lord, and answer me, for I am poor and needy." (Psalm 86:1, ESV)

David’s opening words set the tone for the entire Psalm. He acknowledges his own vulnerability and neediness, positioning himself humbly before God. This humility is a recurring theme throughout the Psalms, reminding us that true prayer begins with the recognition of our dependence on God.

David continues by asking for preservation and salvation, not based on his own righteousness but because of his trust in God:

"Preserve my life, for I am godly; save your servant, who trusts in you—you are my God." (Psalm 86:2, ESV)

Here, the term "godly" can be understood as someone who is devoted or faithful to God. David’s plea is grounded in his relationship with God, emphasizing trust as the foundation of his request for deliverance. This teaches us that our appeals to God should be rooted in our relationship with Him and our trust in His character.

As David continues, he seeks grace and joy from God:

"Be gracious to me, O Lord, for to you do I cry all the day. Gladden the soul of your servant, for to you, O Lord, do I lift up my soul." (Psalm 86:3-4, ESV)

David’s request for grace is a recognition of his need for God’s unmerited favor. His plea for joy illustrates his belief that true happiness and fulfillment come from God alone. By lifting his soul to the Lord, David demonstrates an act of worship and surrender, seeking joy in God’s presence.

The Psalm then transitions to a declaration of God’s character:

"For you, O Lord, are good and forgiving, abounding in steadfast love to all who call upon you." (Psalm 86:5, ESV)

David’s confidence in God’s goodness, forgiveness, and steadfast love forms the basis for his prayer. These attributes of God are central to the biblical understanding of who God is. By affirming God’s character, David strengthens his own faith and encourages us to trust in God’s unwavering love and mercy.

David proceeds to ask for God’s attentive ear once more:

"Give ear, O Lord, to my prayer; listen to my plea for grace. In the day of my trouble I call upon you, for you answer me." (Psalm 86:6-7, ESV)

This repetition underscores the urgency and sincerity of David’s prayer. It also reflects a deep-seated belief in God’s responsiveness. David’s assurance that God answers him highlights the relational aspect of prayer, where communication with God is both sought and expected.

In verses 8-10, David shifts to a broader perspective, extolling God’s uniqueness and greatness:

"There is none like you among the gods, O Lord, nor are there any works like yours. All the nations you have made shall come and worship before you, O Lord, and shall glorify your name. For you are great and do wondrous things; you alone are God." (Psalm 86:8-10, ESV)

David’s acknowledgment of God’s unparalleled nature and mighty works elevates the prayer from personal supplication to universal praise. This passage serves as a reminder of God’s sovereignty over all creation and His worthiness of worship from all nations. It also foreshadows the eschatological vision where all people will recognize and worship God.

Following this, David returns to personal supplication, seeking guidance and a heart aligned with God’s truth:

"Teach me your way, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear your name." (Psalm 86:11, ESV)

David’s request for instruction and a united heart reflects a desire for spiritual integrity and alignment with God’s will. The fear of God, in this context, denotes reverence and awe, leading to faithful obedience. This verse encapsulates the essence of discipleship—learning God’s ways and living them out with a devoted heart.

David then expresses his commitment to praise God wholeheartedly:

"I give thanks to you, O Lord my God, with my whole heart, and I will glorify your name forever. For great is your steadfast love toward me; you have delivered my soul from the depths of Sheol." (Psalm 86:12-13, ESV)

Here, David’s gratitude and praise are a response to God’s steadfast love and deliverance. The reference to Sheol, the realm of the dead, underscores the depth of God’s saving power. David’s whole-hearted thanksgiving is a model for us, showing that genuine worship stems from recognizing and experiencing God’s saving acts.

The Psalm then takes a turn as David describes his adversaries:

"O God, insolent men have risen up against me; a band of ruthless men seeks my life, and they do not set you before them." (Psalm 86:14, ESV)

David’s mention of his enemies brings his plight into sharper focus. The description of these men as insolent and ruthless highlights their disregard for God. This contrast between David’s devotion and his enemies’ defiance serves to emphasize the righteousness of David’s cause and his reliance on God for protection.

In response to his adversaries, David once again affirms God’s merciful nature and seeks divine intervention:

"But you, O Lord, are a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness. Turn to me and be gracious to me; give your strength to your servant, and save the son of your maidservant." (Psalm 86:15-16, ESV)

David draws on the rich theological heritage of Israel, echoing the self-revelation of God in Exodus 34:6. By invoking these attributes, David appeals to God’s covenantal faithfulness and mercy. His request for strength and salvation underscores his dependence on God’s power and grace.

The Psalm concludes with a plea for a sign of God’s favor:

"Show me a sign of your favor, that those who hate me may see and be put to shame because you, Lord, have helped me and comforted me." (Psalm 86:17, ESV)

David’s desire for a sign is not merely for personal reassurance but also for the vindication of God’s name. By seeking a visible demonstration of God’s favor, David aims to silence his enemies and affirm God’s faithfulness. This final verse encapsulates the dual themes of personal deliverance and the glorification of God’s name.

In summary, Psalm 86 is a profound prayer that weaves together personal supplication, praise, and theological reflection. David’s earnest pleas, grounded in his trust in God’s character, provide a model for our own prayers. His acknowledgment of God’s greatness and steadfast love invites us to worship God with our whole hearts. As we meditate on this Psalm, we are reminded of our dependence on God, the power of prayer, and the assurance of God’s unfailing love and faithfulness.