What is the meaning of Psalm 142:5?

I cry to You

• David voices deep dependence, speaking aloud to the Only One who can truly help.

• This is not a polite whisper; it is an urgent plea. Like Psalm 34:17, “The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears them.”

• Scripture assumes God literally hears such cries (Psalm 50:15; 1 Peter 5:7). Our prayers are not fingers crossed in the dark—they reach the throne of heaven.

---

O LORD

• David addresses Yahweh, the covenant-keeping God who revealed Himself to Moses in Exodus 3:14-15.

• Calling on the personal name signals trust in God’s character and promises (Psalm 9:10).

• When life caves in, knowing Who we’re talking to steadies the heart. The Lord’s nature—not circumstances—anchors us.

---

You are my refuge

• A refuge is a safe shelter that cannot be breached. Psalm 46:1 echoes, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”

• David does not say God merely provides refuge; He is the refuge (Psalm 91:2; Proverbs 18:10).

• For believers today, Christ fulfills this promise—our hiding place amid every storm (John 10:28-29).

---

my portion in the land of the living

• “Portion” pictures inheritance. Instead of staking hope on possessions, David claims the Lord Himself (Psalm 73:26; Lamentations 3:24).

• “Land of the living” affirms that this confidence is for now, not just eternity (Psalm 27:13; Psalm 116:9).

• Even when earthly allotments disappear, God remains the believer’s enduring share, supplying daily grace and future glory.

---

summary

Psalm 142:5 captures a heart that runs straight to God, calls on His personal name, hides in His protective care, and treasures Him above every earthly gain. When we echo David’s words, we confess that the Lord both hears and holds us—our safe refuge and satisfying portion right here in the land of the living.