Psalms 30:10

Authorized King James Version

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Hear, O LORD, and have mercy upon me: LORD, be thou my helper.

Original Language Analysis

שְׁמַע Hear H8085
שְׁמַע Hear
Strong's: H8085
Word #: 1 of 7
to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)
יְ֝הוָה O LORD H3068
יְ֝הוָה O LORD
Strong's: H3068
Word #: 2 of 7
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
וְחָנֵּ֑נִי and have mercy H2603
וְחָנֵּ֑נִי and have mercy
Strong's: H2603
Word #: 3 of 7
properly, to bend or stoop in kindness to an inferior; to favor, bestow; causatively to implore (i.e., move to favor by petition)
יְ֝הוָה O LORD H3068
יְ֝הוָה O LORD
Strong's: H3068
Word #: 4 of 7
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
הֱֽיֵה H1961
הֱֽיֵה
Strong's: H1961
Word #: 5 of 7
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
עֹזֵ֥ר be thou my helper H5826
עֹזֵ֥ר be thou my helper
Strong's: H5826
Word #: 6 of 7
to surround, i.e., protect or aid
לִֽי׃ H0
לִֽי׃
Strong's: H0
Word #: 7 of 7

Analysis & Commentary

The plea 'Hear, O LORD, and have mercy upon me: LORD, be thou my helper' combines petition for audience, compassion, and assistance. This simple prayer acknowledges complete dependence—the psalmist needs God to hear, have mercy, and help. Reformed theology emphasizes that prayer is covenant relationship, not earning divine favor. God has committed to hear His people's cries. Mercy is the basis of answered prayer, not merit.

Historical Context

This threefold petition (hear, have mercy, help) characterized Israel's prayers throughout Scripture. From Egypt's bondage to Babylonian exile, this pattern sustained faith: cry to God, trust His mercy, receive His help.

Questions for Reflection

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