An Evening Psalm

Psalm 4
1 Hear me when I call, O God of my righteousness! You have given me relief when I was in distress. Be gracious to me and hear my prayer!
2 O men, how long shall my honor be turned into shame? How long will you love vain words and seek after lies?
3 But know that the Lord has set apart the godly for himself; the Lord hears when I call to him.
4 Be angry, and do not sin; ponder in your own hearts on your beds, and be silent (quiet/still).
5 Offer right sacrifices, and put your trust in the Lord.
6 There are many who say, "Who will show us some good? Lift up the light of your face upon us, O Lord!"
7 You have put more joy in my heart than they have when their grain and wine abound.
8 In peace I will both lie down and sleep; for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.

"Since ancient times, Psalm 3 has been entitled "a morning Psalm" and Psalm 4 "an evening Psalm".

*When a person receives material gain such as a bountiful harvest (v7), there is gladness of heart. David wants us to know that there is available from the Lord an inner gladness of heart that transcends any elation obtained from material gain. The evidence of such gladness is peace and security and a good night's sleep! Our God supplies the best brand of sleeping pills!

Application - "The work of righteousness shall be peace: and the effect of righteousness, quietness and assurance forever" (Isaiah 32:17). Whether it be peace among nations, peace within the family circle, or peace within the heart, there is no peace apart from righteousness because peace is a product of righteousness."

Pat Spies
Women's Ministry Volunteer

*The Psalms, Expositional Devotional Studies by Don Kelso