David hid in one of the many caves such as this near Adullam, a city 13 miles southwest of Bethlehem (1 Samuel 22: 1-12). David was in this area when three of his mighty men risked their lives to get him a drink of water from Bethlehem (2 Samuel 23: 13-17).

Psalm 86 is one of the lament psalms written by David. It is not clear whether verse 14’s “a band of ruthless men” that seek his life are Saul’s men or from the time that he had to flee Jerusalem because of Absalom’s conspiracy (2 Samuel 15-17). David’s prayer to God is for the preservation of his life, as well as the comfort of God’s care, and the lifting of his spirits in a time of unimaginable adversity.

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

The entire chapter models prayer today for God’s people when they are weary or oppressed, saddened, anxious, or depressed, And it is full of praise to God for His mercy and graciousness, steadfast love, and faithfulness (verses 5, 10, 13, and 15). David glorifies the name of God, while presenting his petitions, and thanking Him for His care. And he expresses his trust in God to do what will be best for him (verses 10 and 13).

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

Read or listen to audio of ESV version of this selection from this link.

/Bob’s boy

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some images © V. Gilbert & Arlisle F. Beers

Please note: I did not design the reading plan that I am following in my blog.  All of my comments in this blog, however, are solely my responsibility.  When reading ANY commentary, you should ALWAYS refer first to the scripture, which is God’s unchanging and unfailing word. Reading schedules, as well as a link to the site where you can get the reading plan that I’m currently following for yourself can be found on the “Bible Reading Schedules” page of my website at http://graceofourlord.com.