But I call to God, and the LORD saves me. But I call to GodThe phrase "But I call to God" signifies a deliberate and conscious decision to seek divine intervention. The Hebrew root for "call" is קָרָא (qara), which implies a vocal and earnest plea. This action is not passive; it is an active turning towards God amidst distress. Historically, calling upon God was a common practice for the Israelites, reflecting their covenant relationship with Him. This phrase underscores the psalmist's faith and trust in God's willingness to listen and respond, contrasting human unreliability with divine faithfulness. and the LORD will save me Persons / Places / Events 1. DavidTraditionally attributed as the author of Psalm 55, David is expressing his distress and trust in God amidst betrayal and turmoil. 2. God (Yahweh) The central figure to whom David calls for deliverance, emphasizing His role as a savior and protector. 3. Enemies/Betrayers Though not named in this specific verse, the context of the psalm involves David's adversaries and those who have betrayed him. 4. Jerusalem While not directly mentioned in this verse, the setting of many of David's psalms, including this one, is often in or around Jerusalem. 5. Prayer The act of calling upon God, which is a central theme in this verse and throughout the psalm. Teaching Points The Power of PrayerDavid's immediate response to distress is to call upon God, highlighting the importance of prayer as a first resort rather than a last. God's Faithfulness The assurance that "the LORD will save me" underscores God's faithfulness to His people, encouraging believers to trust in His promises. Dealing with Betrayal David's experience of betrayal teaches us to turn to God for comfort and justice rather than seeking revenge. Confidence in Salvation The verse assures believers of God's willingness and ability to save, encouraging a confident faith in His deliverance. Consistency in Faith David's example shows the importance of maintaining a consistent relationship with God, especially in times of trouble. Bible Study Questions 1. How does David's response to his situation in Psalm 55:16 serve as a model for handling personal crises today?2. In what ways can we cultivate a habit of turning to God first in times of distress, as David did? 3. How does the assurance of God's salvation in this verse encourage you in your current life circumstances? 4. What other biblical examples can you find where individuals called upon God and experienced His deliverance? 5. How can understanding the original Hebrew context of "call" and "save" deepen our appreciation of this verse's message? Connections to Other Scriptures Psalm 18:6This verse also speaks of calling upon the Lord in distress and being heard, reinforcing the theme of God as a responsive savior. Philippians 4:6-7 Encourages believers to present their requests to God through prayer, promising peace, which aligns with David's reliance on God for salvation. 1 Peter 5:7 Advises casting all anxieties on God because He cares, echoing David's trust in God's deliverance. Romans 10:13 Declares that everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved, paralleling the assurance of salvation found in Psalm 55:16. Hebrews 4:16 Invites believers to approach God's throne of grace with confidence, similar to David's confident appeal to God for help. People David, PsalmistPlaces JerusalemTopics Prayer, Save, Saveth, SaviourDictionary of Bible Themes Psalm 55:168486 spiritual warfare, armour Library July 9. "Cast Thy Burden on the Lord" (Ps. Lv. 22). "Cast thy burden on the Lord" (Ps. lv. 22). Dear friends, sometimes we bring a burden to God, and we have such a groaning over it, and we seem to think God has a dreadful time, too, but in reality it does not burden Him at all. God says: It is a light thing for Me to do this for you. Your load, though heavy for you, is not heavy for Him. Christ carries the whole on one shoulder, not two shoulders. The government of the world is upon His shoulder. He is not struggling and groaning with it. His mighty … Rev. A. B. Simpson—Days of Heaven Upon Earth Out of the Deep of Fear and Anxiety. The Arrest If Then to Sin, that Others May not Commit a Worse Sin... Patrick, the Apostle of the Irish. Concerning Persecution The Resemblance Between the Old Testament and the New. Covenant Duties. Letter Xlv (Circa A. D. 1120) to a Youth Named Fulk, who Afterwards was Archdeacon of Langres Letter xix (A. D. 1127) to Suger, Abbot of S. Denis Psalms Links Psalm 55:16 NIVPsalm 55:16 NLT Psalm 55:16 ESV Psalm 55:16 NASB Psalm 55:16 KJV Psalm 55:16 Commentaries Bible Hub |