Psalms 55:16
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 55:16
16 As for me, I will call upon God; and the LORD shall save me.
Chapter Context
Psalms 55 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of grace, prayer, fellowship. Written during various periods (c. 1000-400 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Temple worship utilized these compositions across various periods of Israel's history.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-23: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it demonstrates God's faithfulness despite human unfaithfulness. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Psalms and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Psalms 55:16
16 As for me, I will call upon God; and the LORD shall save me.
Analysis
The shift from imprecation to trust demonstrates biblical prayer's movement from lament to faith. 'I will call upon God' affirms covenant confidence despite circumstances. The parallelism with 'the LORD shall save me' reveals that calling and deliverance are inseparably linked—not as magic but as covenant promise grounded in God's faithfulness to His elect.
Historical Context
This verse marks a turning point in the psalm from lament to confidence, a common structure in Davidic psalms. David's faith rests on God's covenant promises to establish his throne forever (2 Samuel 7:12-16).
Reflection
- How does persistent prayer in suffering demonstrate faith rather than doubt?
- What covenant promises sustain you when circumstances seem to contradict God's goodness?
Word Studies
- Save: יָשַׁע (Yasha) H3467 - To save, deliver, rescue
Cross-References
- References God: Psalms 73:28
- Parallel theme: Psalms 50:15, 109:4