1 To the chief musician; Al-tascheth (Destroy not), of David, Michtam, on his fleeing from Saul in the cave.
2 Be gracious unto me, O God, be gracious unto me; for my soul [is] trusting in thee; and in the shadow of thy wings will I trust until mischiefs (or calamities) shall pass.
3 I will call unto God Most High, unto God that perfecteth for me.
4 He will send from the heavens and save me: he that would swallow me up reviled! Selah. God will send his mercy and his truth.
5 My soul [is] in the midst of lions; I will lie down with those on fire, the sons of men, their teeth spears and arrows, and their tongue a sharp sword.
6 Be exalted above the heavens, O God; above all the earth [be] thy glory!
7 A net they prepared for my steps: my soul was bowed down; they digged a pit before me; they fell into the midst of it. Selah.
8 Fixed [is] my heart, O God, fixed my heart; I will sing, yea, I will sing psalms (play).
9 Awake, my glory; awake, lute and harp: I will wake the dawn (or with it).
10 O Lord, among the peoples, I will give thee thanks.
11 For thy mercy [is] great unto the heavens, and thy truth unto the clouds.
12 Be exalted above the heavens, O God; thy glory [be] above all the earth.
Notes on Psalm 57
This too is “To the chief musician; Al-tascheth (destroy not), of David, Michtam, on his fleeing from Saul in the cave.”
In the evidently close companion of Psalm 46, the progress of soul in confidence is more complete. It is no longer the plea, “for man would swallow me up,” but the quiet assurance, “for my soul is trusting in thee.” And God’s word was not praised in vain. Intervention from heaven is counted on, God’s loving-kindness too and truth, with the grand result of His exaltation above the heavens, and His glory above all the earth. All things work together for good to those that love Him, as the godly remnant will; and as we do now by grace.