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Lutheran reading notes

In Psalms chapter 4, 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 [To the chief Musician on Neginoth, A Psalm of David.] Hear me when I call, O God of my righteousness: thou hast enlarged me {when I was} in distress; have mercy upon me, and hear my prayer. {chief...: or, overseer} {have...: or, be gracious unto me}
Psalms 4:1 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
2 O ye sons of men, how long {will ye turn} my glory into shame? {how long} will ye love vanity, {and} seek after leasing? Selah.
Psalms 4:2 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
3 But know that the LORD hath set apart him that is godly for himself: the LORD will hear when I call unto him.
Psalms 4:3 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
4 Stand in awe, and sin not: commune with your own heart upon your bed, and be still. Selah.
Psalms 4:4 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
5 Offer the sacrifices of righteousness, and put your trust in the LORD.
Psalms 4:5 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
6 {There be} many that say, Who will shew us {any} good? LORD, lift thou up the light of thy countenance upon us.
Psalms 4:6 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
7 Thou hast put gladness in my heart, more than in the time {that} their corn and their wine increased.
Psalms 4:7 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
8 I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, LORD, only makest me dwell in safety.
Psalms 4:8 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.