Psalm 57:2

I cry out to God Most High, to God who fulfills His purpose for me.

Study Bible

I cry out to God Most High
The phrase "I cry out" indicates a deep, earnest plea, reflecting the psalmist's intense need for divine intervention. The Hebrew root for "cry out" is "qara," which conveys a sense of calling out loudly or summoning. This is not a casual request but a desperate appeal for help. The term "God Most High" translates from the Hebrew "El Elyon," emphasizing God's supreme authority and sovereignty over all creation. Historically, this title is used to acknowledge God's ultimate power and position above all other gods and earthly rulers, reinforcing the psalmist's trust in God's ability to deliver and protect.

to God who fulfills His purpose for me
The phrase "to God who fulfills" underscores the psalmist's confidence in God's active role in his life. The Hebrew word "gamar" is used here, meaning to complete or bring to an end. This suggests that God is not only aware of the psalmist's situation but is also actively working to bring about His divine plan. "His purpose for me" reflects a personal relationship between the psalmist and God, indicating that God has a specific plan and intention for each individual. This aligns with the broader biblical narrative that God has a purpose for each of His followers, as seen in passages like Jeremiah 29:11. The historical context of this psalm, attributed to David during his flight from Saul, highlights the trust and faith required to believe in God's purpose amidst trials and uncertainty.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The author of this Psalm, who is traditionally believed to have written it while fleeing from King Saul. David's life was marked by moments of deep distress and reliance on God.

2. God Most High (El Elyon)
A title for God that emphasizes His supreme authority and sovereignty over all creation. It reflects the belief in God's ultimate power and control over the universe.

3. Cave of Adullam
While not mentioned directly in this verse, the context of Psalm 57 is often associated with David's time hiding in the cave of Adullam, a place of refuge during his flight from Saul.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty
Recognize that God is in control of all circumstances. Just as David trusted God to fulfill His purpose, we too can trust in God's sovereign plan for our lives.

Purpose and Fulfillment
Understand that God has a specific purpose for each of us. Our role is to seek His will and trust that He will bring it to completion.

Prayer and Dependence
Like David, we should cry out to God in times of trouble, relying on His strength and guidance rather than our own understanding.

Faith in Adversity
Even in difficult situations, maintain faith that God is working for our good and His glory, using every circumstance to shape us according to His purpose.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God as "Most High" influence your perspective on the challenges you face today?

2. In what ways can you actively seek to understand and fulfill God's purpose for your life, as David did?

3. Reflect on a time when you felt God was fulfilling His purpose in your life. How did that experience strengthen your faith?

4. How can the example of David's reliance on God in Psalm 57:2 encourage you to trust God in your current circumstances?

5. What other biblical figures demonstrate a strong belief in God's purpose and sovereignty, and how can their accounts inspire your walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 138:8
This verse speaks of God fulfilling His purpose, similar to Psalm 57:2, emphasizing God's faithfulness in completing what He has started in the lives of His people.

Philippians 1:6
In the New Testament, Paul echoes the theme of God completing His work in believers, reinforcing the idea of divine purpose and fulfillment.

Genesis 14:18-20
The first mention of "God Most High" (El Elyon) in the Bible, highlighting God's sovereignty and blessing through Melchizedek's encounter with Abraham.