1Save me, O God, by thy name, and judge me by thy strength.
2Hear my prayer, O God; give ear to the words of my mouth.
3For strangers are risen up against me, and oppressors seek after my soul: they have not set God before them. Selah.
4Behold, God is mine helper: the Lord is with them that uphold my soul.
5He shall reward evil unto mine enemies: cut them off in thy truth.
6I will freely sacrifice unto thee: I will praise thy name, O Lord; for it is good.
7For he hath delivered me out of all trouble: and mine eye hath seen his desire upon mine enemies.
📖 Chapter study
Summary
David pleads for urgent rescue from strangers and ruthless men seeking his life, affirms that God is his helper, and promises to offer a sacrifice of gratitude when he is delivered from all distress.
Explanation
The title links this short psalm to the moment when the Ziphites (inhabitants of a region in the wilderness of Judah) betrayed David, revealing his hiding place to Saul (1 Samuel 23:19-29 and 26:1) — an example of how even seeming allies could turn against him out of self-interest. Despite its brevity, the psalm follows the classic pattern of lament: an urgent plea, an affirmation of trust in God as helper, and a promise of future gratitude. Today's application: even in the face of unexpected betrayals, it is possible to cry out to God with the assurance that He stands on the side of those who trust Him.