Psalm 140:6

I say to the LORD, "You are my God." Hear, O LORD, my cry for help.

Study Bible

I say to the LORD, “You are my God.”
This phrase reflects a personal declaration of faith and trust in God. The use of "LORD" in all caps signifies the Hebrew name Yahweh, emphasizing a covenant relationship. This declaration is reminiscent of other biblical figures who professed their allegiance to God, such as Joshua in Joshua 24:15. The phrase underscores the importance of acknowledging God as sovereign and personal, a theme prevalent throughout the Psalms. In the cultural context of ancient Israel, declaring Yahweh as one's God was a counter-cultural statement, especially amidst surrounding nations that worshipped multiple deities. This phrase also foreshadows the New Testament emphasis on personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ, as seen in John 20:28 when Thomas calls Jesus "My Lord and my God."

Hear, O LORD, my cry for help.
This plea for divine intervention is a common motif in the Psalms, reflecting the human need for God's assistance in times of distress. The psalmist's cry is not just a request but an expression of faith that God listens and responds. The historical context of this plea may relate to David's experiences of persecution and danger, as seen in 1 Samuel 23:14-15. Theologically, this cry for help is echoed in the New Testament, where believers are encouraged to cast their anxieties on God (1 Peter 5:7). The phrase also points to the intercessory role of Christ, who, as our High Priest, hears and responds to our cries (Hebrews 4:14-16). The psalmist's appeal to God as a listener and responder to prayer is a testament to the intimate relationship between God and His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
Traditionally attributed as the author of this psalm, David is expressing his reliance on God amidst adversity. Known as a man after God's own heart, David often turned to God in times of trouble.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal presence and faithfulness. David addresses God directly, showcasing a personal relationship.

3. Enemies
While not explicitly mentioned in this verse, the context of Psalm 140 involves David seeking deliverance from violent and wicked men, highlighting the adversarial backdrop of his plea.

4. Cry for Help
This event signifies a moment of desperation and trust, where David calls upon God to intervene in his circumstances.

5. Prayer
The act of communicating with God, which is central to this verse, as David petitions God for assistance.

Teaching Points

Dependence on God
David's declaration, "You are my God," reflects a personal and exclusive reliance on God. Believers are encouraged to cultivate a similar personal relationship with God, acknowledging Him as their sole source of help and strength.

The Power of Prayer
David's cry for help underscores the importance of prayer as a means of seeking God's intervention. Christians are reminded to bring their concerns to God, trusting in His ability to respond.

Faith in Adversity
Despite facing enemies, David's faith remains steadfast. This teaches believers to maintain their faith and trust in God, even when circumstances seem overwhelming.

God's Faithfulness
By addressing God as "my God," David affirms God's faithfulness to His covenant people. Believers can find assurance in God's unchanging nature and His commitment to His promises.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's declaration, "You are my God," challenge us to evaluate our personal relationship with God?

2. In what ways can we incorporate David's example of crying out to God in our own prayer lives, especially during times of trouble?

3. How does understanding the context of David's adversaries enhance our appreciation of his trust in God?

4. What other biblical figures demonstrate a similar reliance on God in difficult circumstances, and what can we learn from their examples?

5. How can the assurance of God's faithfulness, as seen in this verse, impact our daily walk with Him and our response to life's challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 18:6
This verse also depicts David calling upon the Lord in distress, emphasizing the consistency of his reliance on God throughout his life.

Psalm 86:7
David expresses confidence that God will answer him in the day of trouble, reinforcing the theme of trust in divine intervention.

Philippians 4:6-7
Paul encourages believers to present their requests to God with thanksgiving, promising peace that guards hearts and minds, which aligns with David's approach to seeking God's help.