Psalm 4 - International Standard Version (ISV)

To the Director: With stringed instruments. A Davidic Psalm

Trust God under Adversity

4 When I call, answer me,
my righteous God![a]
When I was in distress, you set me free.
Be gracious to me and hear my prayer.

2 You people,
how long will you malign my reputation?
How long will you love what is vain[b]
and what is false?
Interlude
3 But understand this:[c]
the Lord has set apart the godly for himself!
The Lord will hear me when I cry out to him!

4 Be angry, yet do not sin.[d]
Think about this[e] when upon your beds,
and be silent.
Interlude
5 Offer sacrifices that are righteous,
and put your confidence in the Lord.

6 Many are asking, “Who will help us to see better days?”[f]
Lord, may the light of your favor[g] shine upon us.
7 You have given me more joy in my heart than at harvest times,
when grain and wine abound.
8 I will lie down and sleep in peace,
for you alone, Lord, enable me to live securely.

Footnotes

  1. Psalm 4:1 Or God of my righteousness
  2. Psalm 4:2 I.e. what has no substance
  3. Psalm 4:3 The Heb. lacks this
  4. Psalm 4:4 Cf. Eph 4:26
  5. Psalm 4:4 The Heb. lacks this
  6. Psalm 4:6 Lit. cause us to see good
  7. Psalm 4:6 Lit. face