Psalm 3:4

To the LORD I cry aloud, and He answers me from His holy mountain. Selah

Study Bible

I cried aloud
The phrase "I cried aloud" in Psalm 3:4 reflects a deep, earnest plea from the psalmist, King David, to God. The Hebrew root for "cried" is "קָרָא" (qara), which conveys a sense of calling out or proclaiming. This is not a silent prayer but a vocal expression of distress and dependence on God. Historically, this psalm is set during the time when David fled from his son Absalom, a period of intense personal turmoil and danger. The act of crying aloud signifies David's acknowledgment of his inability to handle the situation alone and his reliance on divine intervention. It is a reminder to believers that God hears our cries, no matter how desperate or loud they may be.

to the LORD
The use of "to the LORD" emphasizes the direct and personal relationship David has with God. The Hebrew term for "LORD" here is "יהוה" (Yahweh), the covenant name of God, which signifies His eternal presence and faithfulness. This is not a generic call for help but a specific appeal to the God who has revealed Himself to Israel and to David personally. In the conservative Christian perspective, this highlights the importance of a personal relationship with God, where believers can approach Him with confidence, knowing He is both sovereign and intimately involved in their lives.

and He answered me
The phrase "and He answered me" reflects the assurance and faith David has in God's responsiveness. The Hebrew root "עָנָה" (anah) means to respond or reply, indicating that God is not distant or indifferent but actively engaged with those who seek Him. This assurance of being heard is a recurring theme in the Psalms and serves as a source of comfort and strength for believers. It underscores the belief that God is attentive to the prayers of His people and responds according to His will and purpose.

from His holy mountain
"From His holy mountain" refers to Mount Zion, the location of the Ark of the Covenant during David's reign, symbolizing God's presence and rule. The Hebrew word for "holy" is "קֹדֶשׁ" (qodesh), denoting something set apart and sacred. This imagery conveys the idea that God's response comes from a place of authority and sanctity. For David, this was a reminder of God's sovereign power and His commitment to His covenant people. In a broader theological context, it points to the belief that God, though transcendent, is also immanent, actively involved in the world and in the lives of His followers. This provides believers with the assurance that God's help is both powerful and personal.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The author of Psalm 3, David is in a time of distress, fleeing from his son Absalom. This context highlights his reliance on God during personal turmoil.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, emphasizing His personal relationship with David and His people. David directs his cries to Yahweh, trusting in His faithfulness.

3. Holy Mountain
Refers to Mount Zion, the location of the Ark of the Covenant during David's time, symbolizing God's presence and His dwelling place among His people.

4. Absalom's Rebellion
The event during which David wrote this psalm, as he fled from his son Absalom who sought to usurp the throne.

5. Selah
A term used in the Psalms, possibly indicating a pause for reflection or musical interlude, inviting the reader to meditate on the truth just expressed.

Teaching Points

The Power of Prayer
David's example shows the importance of crying out to God in times of trouble. Prayer is a powerful tool for believers to connect with God and seek His intervention.

God's Faithful Response
The assurance that God answers prayer is a central theme. Believers can trust that God hears and responds from His holy presence.

The Significance of God's Presence
The reference to God's "holy mountain" underscores the importance of His presence. Believers are reminded that God is near and accessible.

Reflection and Meditation
The use of "Selah" encourages believers to pause and reflect on God's faithfulness and the truths of His Word.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's situation in Psalm 3:4 encourage you to approach God in your own times of distress?

2. In what ways can you incorporate the practice of "Selah" into your daily life to enhance your spiritual reflection and meditation?

3. How does the assurance of God's response from His "holy mountain" impact your confidence in prayer?

4. Compare David's cry to God in Psalm 3:4 with Paul's exhortation in Philippians 4:6-7. How do both passages encourage a life of prayer and trust in God?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's answer to your prayers. How did that experience strengthen your faith and reliance on Him?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 30:6
David strengthens himself in the LORD during distress, similar to his cry in Psalm 3:4.

Philippians 4:6-7
Encourages believers to present their requests to God with thanksgiving, promising peace, akin to David's experience of God's answer.

Hebrews 4:16
Invites believers to approach God's throne of grace with confidence, reflecting David's boldness in crying out to God.