◄ Psalm 4 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
Answer Me When I Call! For the choirmaster. With stringed instruments. A Psalm of David. 1 Answer me when I call, O God of my righteousness! You have relieved my distress; show me grace and hear my prayer. 2How long, O men, will my honor be maligned? How long will you love vanity and seek after liesa? Selah 3Know that the LORD has set apart the godly for Himself; the LORD hears when I call to Him. 4Be angry, yet do not sin;b on your bed, search your heart and be still. Selah 5Offer the sacrifices of the righteous and trust in the LORD. 6Many ask, “Who can show us the good?” Shine the light of Your face upon us, O LORD. 7You have filled my heart with more joy than when grain and new wine abound. 8I will lie down and sleep in peace, for You alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety. Footnotes: 2 a Or false gods 4 b Or In your anger do not sin or Tremble and do not sin; cited in Ephesians 4:26 Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Psalm 4 Summary Answer Me When I Call! Verses 1 – Cry for Answer David opens with an urgent plea: “Answer me when I call, O God of my righteousness!” He remembers past rescues and expects God to act again, confident that the Lord’s character guarantees help. Verse 2 – Rebuke of the Insolent He addresses opponents who trash his reputation: “How long will you turn my glory to shame?” Their pursuit of “worthless things” shows a heart detached from truth. Verse 3 – Assurance of Divine Separation David reminds both himself and his detractors that “the LORD has set apart the godly for Himself.” This special distinction ensures God hears when His servant prays. Verses 4–5 – Call to Right Worship Anger must be checked: “Be angry, yet do not sin.” Quiet reflection, right sacrifices, and fresh trust in the LORD are the proper responses. Verse 6 – Plea for Light Many crave visible blessing, but David asks, “Lift up the light of Your face upon us, O LORD.” Favor, not possessions, is the true treasure. Verse 7 – Joy Greater Than Abundance God plants deeper happiness in David’s heart than bumper crops could ever supply. Verse 8 – Rest in Safety The psalm closes with calm: “In peace I will lie down and sleep, for You alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety.” The Shepherd watches through the night. Psalm 4, traditionally attributed to King David, is a beautiful and emotional reflection on God's role in providing peace, deliverance, and protection in times of distress. It serves as a remarkable example of a sincere and profound dialogue between a person and God, depicting David's steadfast faith and trust in the Lord. This psalm paints a vivid picture of reliance on God's justice in the face of adversity. Authorship and Setting The superscription links Psalm 4 to David and to stringed instruments. Many see it as an evening companion to Psalm 3, which pictures a morning after flight from Absalom (2 Samuel 15–17). The same pressures—slander, rebellion, danger—still swirl, but now the day is ending. Nighttime in ancient Israel often magnified fear; cities closed gates, lamps dimmed, and enemies could strike unseen. Yet David beds down in faith. Literary Features • Parallel lines: Complaint / confidence, rebuke / invitation, trouble / trust. • Movement: outward to inward—public accusations give way to private rest. • Three “Selah” pauses (vv. 2, 4, 8 in some manuscripts) encourage reflection after each key thought. Key Themes 1. God’s Righteousness: David appeals to God as the source and defender of right standing (v. 1). 2. The Futility of Idols: “Worthless things” (v. 2) echoes Jeremiah 2:5. 3. Controlled Emotions: Verse 4 is quoted in Ephesians 4:26—anger must not govern the believer. 4. True Prosperity: Joy rooted in God (v. 7) outweighs material plenty. 5. Rest in God’s Security: Sleep becomes an act of worship, trusting the Keeper of Israel who “neither slumbers nor sleeps” (Psalm 121:4). Historical and Archaeological Insights • “Grain and new wine” (v. 7) evoke harvest festivals like Tabernacles, when Israelites celebrated God’s provision (Deuteronomy 16:13–15). Excavated storage jars from tenth-century B.C. outposts show how critical these yields were to survival. • Stringed instruments (likely lyres or harps) have been found in reliefs from nearby cultures, indicating their common use in royal courts and worship. • City walls unearthed at sites such as Lachish reveal tight nighttime security procedures, underscoring the courage of lying down in peace while enemies lurked outside. The Psalm in Worship Early Jewish tradition placed Psalm 4 in evening prayers. The Christian church continued this pattern; many liturgies still read it at Compline (night prayers). Its mix of honest emotion and calm surrender makes it a fitting close to any day. Scripture Connections • Morning vs. Evening: Psalm 3:5 “I laid down and slept” parallels Psalm 4:8, framing a full day of dependence. • Light of God’s Face: Numbers 6:24-26 and 2 Corinthians 4:6 both stress divine favor shining like light. • Set Apart: Exodus 33:16 “Your presence distinguishes us” echoes v. 3. • Sacrifices of Righteousness: Psalm 51:17 reminds us that humble hearts, not mere rituals, please God. • Jesus and Sleep: Mark 4:38 shows Christ asleep in the storm, the ultimate picture of v. 8’s security. Practical Application • When reputation is under attack, run first to God, not to retaliation. • Anger is a natural signal; let it drive you to silent reflection and surrender, not rash words. • Measure wealth by the joy God plants, not by barns and bank accounts. • Bedtime can be a daily “mini-Sabbath,” releasing the day’s cares into the Lord’s hands. Messianic Hints The request for the light of God’s face (v. 6) foreshadows the coming Messiah, “the Light of the world” (John 8:12). In Christ, believers experience the ultimate setting apart (v. 3) and lasting peace (John 14:27). Word Notes • “Answer” (Heb. `’aneni`) is urgent, often used in crisis cries (Psalm 20:9). • “Set apart” carries the idea of marking off as special property, like the linen garments reserved for priests. • “Selah” likely signals a musical pause; treat it as an invitation to breathe and absorb. Closing Reflection Psalm 4 moves from distress to deep rest in just eight verses. The same God stands ready today to turn nightly anxiety into confident slumber for all who call on His name. Connections to Additional Scriptures Philippians 4:6-7 Encourages believers to present their requests to God with thanksgiving, promising peace that guards hearts and minds. Matthew 6:33 Calls believers to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, with the assurance that all other needs will be met. Ephesians 4:26 Advises believers to be angry without sinning, echoing the sentiment of Psalm 4:4. Teaching Points God as Our Righteousness Psalm 4:1 begins with David calling upon God, Answer me when I call, O God of my righteousness! This highlights the belief that our righteousness is not of our own making but is granted by God. God's Faithfulness in Distress David acknowledges past deliverance, You have relieved me in my distress (Psalm 4:1). This serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and encourages us to trust Him in current trials. The Vanity of Worldly Pursuits In verse 2, David questions, How long will you love vanity and seek after lies? This challenges us to evaluate our pursuits and prioritize what is eternal. The Assurance of God's Favor Verse 3 states, Know that the LORD has set apart the godly for Himself; the LORD hears when I call to Him. This assures believers of their special status and God's attentive ear. Righteous Anger and Self-Reflection Be angry, yet do not sin; on your bed, search your heart and be still (Psalm 4:4). This teaches the importance of self-control and introspection in moments of anger. Sacrifices and Trust Verse 5 encourages offering the sacrifices of righteousness, and put your trust in the LORD. True worship involves both righteous living and trust in God. Joy and Peace from God David concludes with a declaration of joy and peace, You have put more joy in my heart than when their grain and new wine abound (Psalm 4:7). This underscores the superior joy found in God over material abundance. Practical Applications Seek God in Distress In times of trouble, turn to God in prayer, trusting in His past faithfulness as a foundation for present hope. Evaluate Your Pursuits Regularly assess your goals and desires to ensure they align with God's eternal purposes rather than temporary vanities. Practice Righteous Anger When anger arises, pause to reflect and seek God's guidance to respond without sin. Trust in God's Provision Offer your life as a living sacrifice, trusting that God will provide for your needs and fill your heart with joy. People 1. God The primary addressee of the psalm. David calls upon God for relief and mercy. The Hebrew term used for God here is "אֱלֹהִים" (Elohim), which is a common term for God in the Old Testament, emphasizing His power and majesty. 2. David The author of the psalm, who is speaking throughout. He is seeking God's help and addressing the people. David is traditionally understood to be the king of Israel and a man after God's own heart. 3. Sons of Men This term refers to the people whom David is addressing in the psalm. In Hebrew, "בְּנֵי אִישׁ" (benei ish) can be translated as "sons of men" or "people," indicating the general populace or those who are turning away from God. 4. The Righteous While not explicitly named, the righteous are implied in the psalm as those whom God sets apart for Himself. David contrasts the righteous with those who love delusions and seek false gods. Places 1. Place of Distress The psalm begins with a cry for relief from distress. The Hebrew word used here is "tsar," which can mean a narrow or tight place, symbolizing a situation of trouble or pressure. This metaphorical place represents the psalmist's initial state of anxiety and need for God's intervention. 2. Place of Safety In verse 8, the psalmist speaks of lying down and sleeping in peace, for the Lord makes him dwell in safety. The Hebrew word "betach" is used, which conveys a sense of security and confidence. This place symbolizes the peace and protection found in trusting God. Events 1. David's Plea for Answer David begins the psalm by calling out to God for an answer to his prayer: "Answer me when I call, O God of my righteousness!" (Psalm 4:1). The Hebrew word for "answer" (עָנָה, 'anah) implies a response or reply, indicating David's expectation of God's attentive listening. 2. Acknowledgment of Past Deliverance David acknowledges God's past deliverance: "You have relieved me in my distress" (Psalm 4:1). The Hebrew word for "relieved" (רָחַב, rachab) suggests being set in a broad or spacious place, indicating relief from tight or oppressive circumstances. 3. Appeal for Mercy David appeals for God's mercy: "Be merciful to me and hear my prayer" (Psalm 4:1). The Hebrew word for "mercy" (חָנַן, chanan) conveys the idea of graciousness or favor, underscoring David's reliance on God's grace. 4. Rebuke of the Faithless David addresses those who turn away from God: "How long, O men, will my honor be maligned? How long will you love vanity and seek after lies?" (Psalm 4:2). The Hebrew word for "vanity" (רִיק, riq) refers to emptiness or worthlessness, highlighting the futility of their pursuits. 5. Assurance of God's Favor David expresses confidence in God's favor: "Know that the LORD has set apart the godly for Himself; the LORD hears when I call to Him" (Psalm 4:3). The Hebrew word for "set apart" (פָּלָה, palah) indicates a distinction or separation for a special purpose. 6. Call to Righteousness David exhorts his listeners to righteousness: "Be angry, yet do not sin; on your bed, search your heart and be still" (Psalm 4:4). The Hebrew word for "be angry" (רָגַז, ragaz) can also mean to tremble, suggesting a deep emotional response that should be controlled. 7. Encouragement to Offer Right Sacrifices David encourages offering sacrifices in righteousness: "Offer the sacrifices of righteousness and trust in the LORD" (Psalm 4:5). The Hebrew word for "righteousness" (צֶדֶק, tsedeq) implies justice and moral integrity. 8. Expression of Joy and Peace David concludes with an expression of joy and peace: "You have filled my heart with more joy than when grain and new wine abound" (Psalm 4:7) and "I will lie down and sleep in peace, for You alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety" (Psalm 4:8). The Hebrew word for "peace" (שָׁלוֹם, shalom) encompasses completeness, welfare, and tranquility. Lessons from Psalm 4 1. Trust in God's Righteousness Psalm 4:1 begins with a plea: "Answer me when I call, O God of my righteousness!" This verse reminds us that our righteousness is not our own but comes from God. In our daily lives, we can find peace and confidence knowing that our standing before God is based on His righteousness, not our flawed attempts. Trusting in His righteousness allows us to approach each day with assurance and hope. 2. Seek God's Mercy The psalmist continues, "Give me relief from my distress; have mercy on me and hear my prayer" (Psalm 4:1). This teaches us the importance of seeking God's mercy in times of trouble. Life can be overwhelming, but we have a loving Father who listens and provides relief. By turning to Him in prayer, we invite His peace and guidance into our lives. 3. Recognize the Futility of Worldly Pursuits Psalm 4:2 challenges us: "How long will you people turn my glory into shame? How long will you love delusions and seek false gods?" This verse is a powerful reminder to evaluate our priorities. Are we chasing after things that ultimately don't satisfy? By focusing on God's eternal glory rather than temporary distractions, we align our lives with His purpose. 4. Know That You Are Set Apart "But know that the LORD has set apart the godly for Himself; the LORD hears when I call to Him" (Psalm 4:3). This verse reassures us of our unique identity in Christ. We are set apart for His purposes, and He hears us when we call. Embrace this truth and let it shape your actions and decisions, knowing you are cherished and heard by God. 5. Practice Self-Control and Reflection Psalm 4:4 advises, "Be angry, yet do not sin; on your bed, search your heart and be still." This is a call to self-control and introspection. Anger is a natural emotion, but we must not let it lead us to sin. Instead, take time to reflect and seek God's wisdom, allowing His peace to calm your heart and guide your actions. 6. Offer Right Sacrifices "Offer the sacrifices of the righteous and trust in the LORD" (Psalm 4:5). This verse encourages us to live lives of integrity and faithfulness. Our sacrifices are not just physical offerings but acts of obedience and trust in God. By living righteously and placing our trust in Him, we honor God and experience His blessings. 7. Find Joy in God's Presence Psalm 4:6-7 reveals a profound truth: "Many ask, 'Who can show us the good?' Shine the light of Your face upon us, O LORD. You have filled my heart with more joy than when grain and new wine abound." True joy comes from God's presence, not material abundance. Seek His face daily, and let His joy fill your heart, surpassing any earthly pleasure. 8. Embrace God's Peace "In peace I will lie down and sleep, for You alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety" (Psalm 4:8). This verse is a beautiful reminder of the peace that comes from trusting in God's protection. No matter the chaos around us, we can rest securely in His care. Embrace this peace, and let it transform your nights and days. 9. Cultivate a Life of Prayer Throughout Psalm 4, the psalmist models a life of prayer. This is a call for us to cultivate a consistent prayer life, bringing our needs, fears, and praises before God. Prayer is our lifeline to the Creator, and through it, we find strength, guidance, and a deeper relationship with Him. 10. Live with Eternal Perspective Finally, Psalm 4 encourages us to live with an eternal perspective. By focusing on God's righteousness, mercy, and presence, we align our lives with His eternal purposes. This perspective transforms how we view our challenges and opportunities, leading us to live with hope, purpose, and joy in every circumstance. Topics 1. Prayer for Relief and Answered Prayer Psalm 4 begins with a plea for God to hear and answer the psalmist's prayer. The psalmist calls out to God, acknowledging Him as the source of righteousness and relief in distress. The Hebrew word for "relief" (רָחַב, rachab) implies being set in a broad place, suggesting freedom from distress. ^"Answer me when I call, O God of my righteousness! You have relieved me in my distress; be merciful to me and hear my prayer."^ (Psalm 4:1) 2. Rebuke of the Ungodly The psalmist addresses those who turn glory into shame and pursue falsehood. This reflects a call to repentance and a turning away from deceit. The Hebrew term for "falsehood" (שָׁוְא, shav) can mean emptiness or vanity, indicating the futility of their pursuits. ^"How long, O men, will my honor be maligned? How long will you love vanity and seek after lies?"^ (Psalm 4:2) 3. Assurance of God's Favor The psalmist expresses confidence that the Lord has set apart the godly for Himself and will hear when they call. This assurance is rooted in the covenant relationship between God and His people. The Hebrew word for "set apart" (חָסִיד, chasid) denotes being chosen or consecrated. ^"Know that the LORD has set apart the godly for Himself; the LORD will hear when I call to Him."^ (Psalm 4:3) 4. Call to Righteousness and Trust The psalmist advises self-reflection and trust in the Lord. The exhortation to "tremble" and "do not sin" suggests a reverent fear of God, aligning with the Hebrew concept of יִרְאָה (yirah), which encompasses awe and respect. ^"Be angry, yet do not sin; on your bed, search your heart and be still."^ (Psalm 4:4) 5. Sacrifices and Trust in the Lord The psalmist encourages offering right sacrifices and placing trust in the Lord. This reflects the importance of sincere worship and reliance on God rather than mere ritualistic practices. The Hebrew word for "sacrifices" (זֶבַח, zevach) implies offerings that are pleasing to God. ^"Offer the sacrifices of righteousness and trust in the LORD."^ (Psalm 4:5) 6. Joy and Peace from God The psalmist contrasts the joy given by God with the fleeting happiness from material abundance. The Hebrew word for "joy" (שִׂמְחָה, simchah) conveys a deep, abiding gladness. The psalm concludes with a declaration of peace and safety found in God's presence. ^"You have filled my heart with more joy than when grain and new wine abound."^ (Psalm 4:7) ^"I will lie down and sleep in peace, for You alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety."^ (Psalm 4:8) Themes 1. Divine Response to Prayer Psalm 4:1 begins with a plea for God to answer the psalmist's call: "Answer me when I call, O God of my righteousness!" This theme emphasizes the belief in a personal God who listens and responds to the prayers of the faithful. The Hebrew word for "answer" (עָנָה, 'anah) suggests a responsive action, highlighting God's attentiveness. 2. Righteousness and Justification The psalmist refers to God as the "God of my righteousness" (Psalm 4:1). This theme underscores the belief that righteousness is attributed to believers through their relationship with God. The Hebrew term for righteousness (צֶדֶק, tsedeq) conveys a sense of justice and moral integrity, which is granted by God. 3. Trust in God's Provision In Psalm 4:3, it states, "Know that the LORD has set apart the godly for Himself; the LORD hears when I call to Him." This theme reflects the assurance that God provides for and protects those who are faithful. The Hebrew word for "set apart" (חָסִיד, chasid) indicates a special designation for those who are devout. 4. Call to Repentance and Reflection Psalm 4:4 advises, "Be angry, yet do not sin; on your bed, search your heart and be still." This theme encourages self-examination and repentance. The Hebrew root for "search" (אָמַר, amar) implies a deep contemplation and introspection, urging believers to align their actions with God's will. 5. Peace and Security in God The psalm concludes with a declaration of peace: "In peace I will lie down and sleep, for You alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety" (Psalm 4:8). This theme highlights the tranquility and security found in trusting God. The Hebrew word for "peace" (שָׁלוֹם, shalom) encompasses completeness and well-being, which God provides. 6. Contrast Between the Faithful and the Wicked Throughout the psalm, there is a contrast between the faithful who trust in God and the wicked who seek falsehood. Psalm 4:2 questions, "How long will you love vanity and seek after lies?" This theme emphasizes the moral distinction and the ultimate futility of pursuing deceit over truth. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for God's Righteousness Thank God for being our righteousness and for His faithfulness in past deliverances. Guidance in Prioritizing Eternal Values Pray for wisdom to discern and pursue what is truly valuable in God's eyes. Strength to Control Anger Ask for the Holy Spirit's help in managing emotions and responding in a Christ-like manner. Trust and Joy in God's Provision Pray for a heart that trusts in God's provision and finds joy in His presence, regardless of circumstances. Answering Tough Questions 1. Psalm 4:1: On what grounds should we believe God actually intervenes in human affairs, and is there any historical or scientific evidence supporting this claim? 2. Psalm 4:2: How do we verify who “sons of men” refers to historically, and is there archaeological evidence linking this phrase to a specific group or time period? 3. Psalm 4:4: Is it realistically possible to experience anger without sin according to modern psychology, and how does this align with biblical teachings elsewhere? 4. Psalm 4:5: How do sacrifices of righteousness compare to other biblical texts that claim God does not desire sacrifice (e.g., Psalm 51:16), creating potential inconsistency? 5. Psalm 4:8: If peace and safety are promised to believers, how do we explain faithful individuals who suffer harm or persecution, seemingly contradicting this assurance? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What is the significance of David recalling past experiences of God's deliverance when he prays for relief from distress? 2. What lessons can we learn from David's trust in God's righteous judgment? 3. How can David's approach to dealing with distress be applied in your life today? 4. In what ways can the dialogue between David and God in Psalm 4 be used as a model for our prayers? 5. How does David's advice to "offer the sacrifices of the righteous" translate into modern Christian living? 6. What does David mean when he says he has greater joy than those with grain and new wine abound? 7. How can we find joy and peace in God amidst hardship as David did? 8. How does Psalm 4 challenge our modern perception of happiness and contentment? 9. How does the Psalm illustrate the contrast between the righteous and the wicked? 10. How can we, like David, cultivate an attitude of peace regardless of our external circumstances? 11. How does Psalm 4 affirm the idea of God’s active presence in our lives? 12. How can the expressions of faith seen in Psalm 4 be used to strengthen personal faith and trust in God? 13. How does David's approach to faith in adversity apply to the way we handle the stresses of contemporary life? 14. How can David's exhortation to self-reflection and righteous action influence our daily decisions and actions? 15. How do you interpret the phrase "the Lord sets apart the godly for himself"? 16. In what ways does the modern church echo David's call for faith and righteousness? 17. What does the reference to sleep in verse 8 imply about David's trust in God's protection? 18. How can David's testimony in verse 8 inspire us to deal with fear and insecurity? 19. What can Psalm 4 teach us about the correlation between personal behavior and divine response? 20. In light of Psalm 4, how would you define true peace and how can it be achieved in today's world? 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