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Lutheran reading notes

In Psalms chapter 142, the wisdom literature continues to explore prayer, worship, lament, praise, and trust in God. Lutheran interpretation often emphasizes humanity’s limitations and the need to rely on God's grace and promises. The chapter highlights the contrast between human striving and the faithfulness of God.

Theme: Wisdom, prayer, and faithful living Key people: Wise figures Key place: Israel Liturgical use: Wisdom lections
1 [Maschil of David; A Prayer when he was in the cave.] I cried unto the LORD with my voice; with my voice unto the LORD did I make my supplication. {Maschil...: or, A Psalm of David, giving instruction}
Psalms 142:1 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
2 I poured out my complaint before him; I shewed before him my trouble.
Psalms 142:2 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
3 When my spirit was overwhelmed within me, then thou knewest my path. In the way wherein I walked have they privily laid a snare for me.
Psalms 142:3 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
4 I looked on {my} right hand, and beheld, but {there was} no man that would know me: refuge failed me; no man cared for my soul. {I looked...: or, Look on the right hand, and see} {failed...: Heb. perished from me} {cared...: Heb. sought after}
Psalms 142:4 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
5 I cried unto thee, O LORD: I said, Thou {art} my refuge {and} my portion in the land of the living.
Psalms 142:5 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
6 Attend unto my cry; for I am brought very low: deliver me from my persecutors; for they are stronger than I.
Psalms 142:6 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
7 Bring my soul out of prison, that I may praise thy name: the righteous shall compass me about; for thou shalt deal bountifully with me.
Psalms 142:7 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.