Click here to read PSALM 57 in poetic form.
Background
This Psalm has the title “Michtam,” which literally means an engraving. Psalms 56 through 60 all begin with this title. It is first seen in its only other occurrence—Psalm 16. All six of these titles deal with the Messiah’s death and resurrection.
These six Psalms are “engravings” in that they are established and will absolutely come to pass. As we go through Psalms 56—60, note the absolute certainty of God rescuing David from his enemies, and also of David’s conviction that his “son,” the Messiah, would be raised from the dead.
This Psalm is separated into three sections by the Hebrew term “Selah,” which means to pause. Some Bible teachers say this connected the truths that come before and after the term.
Structure
(Verses 1-3) Prayer to God Most High (repeated)
(Verse 2) I will cry to God
Pause
(Verses 3) God’s mercy and truth from heaven
(Verse 4) Evil men like lions
(Verse 5) Chorus: God exalted in glory
(Verse 6) Evil men prepare a trap
Pause
(Verse 7) My heart is fixed (repeated)
(Verse 7-9) I will praise the Lord
(Verse 10) God’s mercy and truth unto the heavens
(Verse 11) Chorus: God exalted in glory
Key Scriptures
Verses 5,11—“Be thou exalted, O God, above the heavens; let thy glory be above all the earth.” This chorus ends the first and second section. The central section is separated by “Selah” pauses. Jesus Christ’s greatest concern was that his Father would be glorified (Matthew 5:16; John 12:28; 17:1,5).
Verse 6—“they have digged a pit before me, into the midst whereof they are fallen themselves.” Jesus Christ’s enemies constantly tried to trap him, but their evil came upon their own selves.
Verse 7—“My heart is fixed, O God, my heart is fixed.” Jesus Christ’s heart was steadfast to finish what his Father called him to do. For the joy set before him, he endured the cross (Hebrews 12:2).
FOR FURTHER STUDY
All 150 of The Psalms in Poetic Form are available from Amazon in a book, either Large Print or a smaller Bedside Reader. Also available for free with a Kindle Unlimited membership. Enjoy!
The entire blog series is now available in the publication The Psalms: Background & Structure with Key Scriptures Explained.
2 replies on “Psalms in Poetic Form: Psalm 57”
As we live life among others, there is always a chance we can get hurt. Verse 7 is a great confession to be able to refute the temptation to get bitter and move on with living life.
Very true, Richard! Verse 7 in poetic form: “God my heart is steady, my heart is set strong; I will praise You with music, and break forth in song.” Very encouraging, thanks for sharing.