What is the meaning of Psalm 141:8?

But my eyes are fixed on You

• David consciously redirects his attention away from the snares around him and locks it on the LORD alone (see 2 Chronicles 20:12; Hebrews 12:2).

• “Fixed” speaks of a steady, unmoving gaze—no double-mindedness, no quick glances elsewhere (Psalm 25:15).

• When circumstances clamor for our focus, Psalm 121:1-2 reminds us that help comes only from the One our eyes are set upon.

• This is an act of faith: believing that the God we look to will act, just as Peter walked on water while his eyes stayed on Jesus (Matthew 14:29-30).

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O GOD the Lord

• The phrase joins God’s covenant name (Yahweh) with the title of absolute authority (Adonai), underscoring both intimacy and sovereignty (Exodus 3:15; Psalm 86:12).

• David appeals to the personal God who has revealed Himself, not an abstract force.

• Knowing the One we address bolsters confidence; the Maker of heaven and earth personally oversees our lives (Psalm 124:8).

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In You I seek refuge

• “Refuge” pictures a fortified shelter—God Himself is the safe place, not merely the provider of one (Psalm 46:1; Psalm 91:2).

• Seeking refuge is active: running to, remaining in, and relying on Him (Proverbs 18:10).

• Trials do not negate God’s protection; they drive us deeper into it, as Paul experienced when “the Lord stood by me and strengthened me” (2 Timothy 4:17).

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Do not leave my soul defenseless

• David acknowledges his vulnerability; apart from God he is exposed to spiritual and physical harm (Psalm 27:9; Psalm 143:9).

• He pleads for ongoing protection, echoing the armor imagery of Ephesians 6:10-11—without the Lord’s covering, we are open targets.

• The request is confident, not doubtful; it rests on God’s covenant promise never to forsake His people (Deuteronomy 31:6; Hebrews 13:5).

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summary

Psalm 141:8 captures a threefold response to danger: fix your eyes on the LORD, recognize His sovereign yet personal nature, and run to Him as your only refuge. Confident that He will not abandon the soul that trusts Him, we stand protected, steady, and hopeful in every circumstance.