Psalm 4 Summary - 5 Minute Bible Study

Psalm 4 Short Summary:

In Psalm 4, David brings his distress to the Lord and asks God to hear his prayer. It seems there were men who were lying about and slandering David, trying to take away the glory he deserved as king and cover him in shame. David expressed his confidence that God would not let these men succeed, saying, “the Lord hears when I call to him.”

Psalm 4 Summary

AUTHOR:

• King David is the author of Psalm 4

NEW TESTAMENT REFERENCES:

• Ephesians 4:26

THEMES:

• Calling out to God for support when wicked people oppress you.

• God is more satisfying than the riches of the world.

OUTLINE:

• DAVID CRIES OUT TO GOD AND CORRECTS HIS ENEMIES (4:1-5):

  • David brings his distress to the Lord and asks God to hear his prayer.

  • It seems there were men who were lying about and slandering David, trying to take away the glory he deserved as king and cover him in shame.

  • David expressed his confidence that God would not let these men succeed, saying, “the Lord hears when I call to him.”

  • Then David addressed his accusers, telling them not to sin even though they were angry.

  • He encouraged them to consider their “vain words” and “lies” in private and exchange them for sacrifices and trust in God.

• DAVID REQUESTS GOD’S BLESSING FOR THE DISCOURAGED (4:6-8):

  • It appears some of David’s followers and friends were downcast, perhaps due to the slander of his enemies. They were seeking encouragement, saying, “Who will show us some good” (4:6)?

  • David prayed that the Lord would deliver the encouragement. He asked God to “Lift up the light of your face upon us’ (4:6).

  • David found more joy in the Lord than in the wealth and prosperity of men.

  • The peace and satisfaction he found in God was greater than any abundance of grain or wine could offer.
    

APPLICATION:

• Let’s pray that our face can reflect the face of God and that He will use us to bring encouragement to the discouraged.

• As representatives of Jesus, we are His servants to encourage His saints.

• Someone you know is probably praying to God for encouragement. Ask God to use you to answer that prayer.