Psalms 69
BSB1 Save me, O God, for the waters are up to my neck. 2 I have sunk into the miry depths, where there is no footing; I have drifted into deep waters, where the flood engulfs me. 3 I am weary from my crying; my throat is parched. My eyes fail, looking for my God. 4 Those who hate me without cause outnumber the hairs of my head; many are those who would destroy me— my enemies for no reason. Though I did not steal, I must repay. 5 You know my folly, O God, and my guilt is not hidden from You. 6 May those who hope in You not be ashamed through me, O Lord GOD of Hosts; may those who seek You not be dishonored through me, O God of Israel. 7 For I have endured scorn for Your sake, and shame has covered my face. 8 I have become a stranger to my brothers and a foreigner to my mother’s sons, 9 because zeal for Your house has consumed me, and the insults of those who insult You have fallen on me. 10 I wept and fasted, but it brought me reproach. 11 I made sackcloth my clothing, and I was sport to them. 12 Those who sit at the gate mock me, and I am the song of drunkards. 13 But my prayer to You, O LORD, is for a time of favor. In Your abundant loving devotion, O God, answer me with Your sure salvation. 14 Rescue me from the mire and do not let me sink; deliver me from my foes and out of the deep waters. 15 Do not let the floods engulf me or the depths swallow me up; let not the Pit close its mouth over me. 16 Answer me, O LORD, for Your loving devotion is good; turn to me in keeping with Your great compassion. 17 Hide not Your face from Your servant, for I am in distress. Answer me quickly! 18 Draw near to my soul and redeem me; ransom me because of my foes. 19 You know my reproach, my shame and disgrace. All my adversaries are before You. 20 Insults have broken my heart, and I am in despair. I looked for sympathy, but there was none, for comforters, but I found no one. 21 They poisoned my food with gall and gave me vinegar to quench my thirst. 22 May their table become a snare; may it be a retribution and a trap. 23 May their eyes be darkened so they cannot see, and their backs be bent forever. 24 Pour out Your wrath upon them, and let Your burning anger overtake them. 25 May their place be deserted; let there be no one to dwell in their tents. 26 For they persecute the one You struck and recount the pain of those You wounded. 27 Add iniquity to their iniquity; let them not share in Your righteousness. 28 May they be blotted out of the Book of Life and not listed with the righteous. 29 But I am in pain and distress; let Your salvation protect me, O God. 30 I will praise God’s name in song and exalt Him with thanksgiving. 31 And this will please the LORD more than an ox, more than a bull with horns and hooves. 32 The humble will see and rejoice. You who seek God, let your hearts be revived! 33 For the LORD listens to the needy and does not despise His captive people. 34 Let heaven and earth praise Him, the seas and everything that moves in them. 35 For God will save Zion and rebuild the cities of Judah, that they may dwell there and possess it. 36 The descendants of His servants will inherit it, and those who love His name will settle in it.
Study Notes — Psalms 69
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from Psalms 69
- Themes from Psalms 69
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on Psalms 69
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
Psalms 69 is a psalm of lament, where David expresses his deep emotional pain and suffering. He feels overwhelmed by his enemies and cries out to God for help, saying, "Save me, O God, for the waters have come up to my neck" (Psalms 69:1). David also expresses his trust in God, saying, "But I will trust in you, Lord" (Psalms 69:3). The chapter also contains a prophecy about Jesus Christ, who would be rejected by the Jews and would suffer greatly for the sins of the world (Psalms 69:4, 9, 21). The chapter ends with a expression of praise and worship to God, who is the helper of the needy and the saver of those who are crushed in spirit (Psalms 69:32-36).
Context for the Chapter
Psalms 69 is a chapter in the book of Psalms, which is a collection of songs and prayers that were written by various authors, including King David. The chapter is part of a larger section of psalms that deal with the theme of suffering and trust in God. The book of Psalms is part of the Old Testament, which is the first part of the Bible and contains the history and teachings of the Jewish people. The chapter is also connected to the New Testament, which contains the teachings and life of Jesus Christ, who is the fulfillment of God's plan of salvation.
Heart Application
The chapter teaches us about the importance of trusting in God, even when we do not understand what is happening in our lives. It shows us that our response to suffering should be to turn to God and praise Him, rather than to become bitter or angry. We can apply this to our lives by trusting in God and praising Him, even in the midst of difficulties and challenges.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
Psalms 69 is a chapter about suffering and trust in God. David is suffering greatly and cries out to God for help. He trusts in God and praises Him, even in the midst of difficulties. The chapter also speaks about Jesus Christ, who would suffer for the sins of the world. We can learn from this chapter that our response to suffering should be to trust in God and praise Him, rather than to become bitter or angry. For example, in Psalms 69:1, David says, "Save me, O God, for the waters have come up to my neck", which shows us that even in the midst of great distress, we can turn to God for help.
Voices from the Church
“"This psalm is a very singular one, it is a lamentation, a dirge, and yet it is a song of praise, a hymn of thanksgiving. It is a psalm of sorrow, and yet it is a psalm of joy."”
— Charles Spurgeon
“"The prophet, in this psalm, is not merely expressing his own feelings, but is speaking in the person of Christ, who was to suffer greatly for the sins of the world."”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- Introduction (Psalms 69:1-5) — The chapter begins with a cry for help, as David expresses his deep emotional pain and suffering. He feels overwhelmed by his enemies and cries out to God for deliverance.
- The Cause of Suffering (Psalms 69:6-12) — David explains that his suffering is not due to any sin he has committed, but rather because of his zeal for God's house and his desire to serve Him.
- The Prayer for Deliverance (Psalms 69:13-21) — David prays to God for deliverance from his enemies and for salvation from his suffering. He expresses his trust in God and His power to save.
- The Prophecies about Jesus Christ (Psalms 69:21-25) — The chapter contains several prophecies about Jesus Christ, including His rejection by the Jews and His suffering for the sins of the world.
- Conclusion (Psalms 69:32-36) — The chapter ends with a expression of praise and worship to God, who is the helper of the needy and the saver of those who are crushed in spirit.
Core Doctrines
- The Doctrine of Suffering
- The chapter teaches us that suffering is a part of the Christian life, but it also teaches us that we can trust in God and praise Him, even in the midst of difficulties.
- The Doctrine of Trust
- The chapter emphasizes the importance of trusting in God, even when we do not understand what is happening in our lives. This is evident in David's statement, "But I will trust in you, Lord" (Psalms 69:3).
- The Doctrine of Prophecy
- The chapter contains several prophecies about Jesus Christ, including His rejection by the Jews and His suffering for the sins of the world.
- The Doctrine of Salvation
- The chapter teaches us that God is the savior of those who are crushed in spirit and that He is the helper of the needy.
Lessons from Psalms 69
- The Importance of Trust — The chapter teaches us that trusting in God is essential, even when we do not understand what is happening in our lives. This is evident in David's statement, "But I will trust in you, Lord" (Psalms 69:3).
- The Power of Prayer — The chapter shows us the power of prayer in the life of a believer. David prays to God for deliverance from his enemies and for salvation from his suffering.
- The Prophecies about Jesus Christ — The chapter contains several prophecies about Jesus Christ, including His rejection by the Jews and His suffering for the sins of the world.
- The Importance of Worship — The chapter teaches us that worship is an essential part of the Christian life. David expresses his determination to praise God and to worship Him, even in the midst of difficulties.
- The Doctrine of Salvation — The chapter teaches us that God is the savior of those who are crushed in spirit and that He is the helper of the needy.
Themes from Psalms 69
- Suffering — The chapter teaches us that suffering is a part of the Christian life, but it also teaches us that we can trust in God and praise Him, even in the midst of difficulties.
- Trust — The chapter emphasizes the importance of trusting in God, even when we do not understand what is happening in our lives. This is evident in David's statement, "But I will trust in you, Lord" (Psalms 69:3).
- Prophecy — The chapter contains several prophecies about Jesus Christ, including His rejection by the Jews and His suffering for the sins of the world.
- Salvation — The chapter teaches us that God is the savior of those who are crushed in spirit and that He is the helper of the needy.
- Worship — The chapter teaches us that worship is an essential part of the Christian life. David expresses his determination to praise God and to worship Him, even in the midst of difficulties.
Questions for Meditation
- What can we learn from David's response to suffering in this chapter?
- How does the chapter teach us to trust in God, even when we do not understand what is happening in our lives?
- What prophecies about Jesus Christ are contained in this chapter?
- How can we apply the teachings of this chapter to our own lives?
- What can we learn from the way David expresses his emotions and pours out his heart to God in this chapter?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. Introduction (Psalms 69:1-5)
| 69:1 | The chapter begins with a cry for help, as David expresses his deep emotional pain and suffering. He feels overwhelmed by his enemies and cries out to God for deliverance. |
| 69:2 | David describes his suffering as being like a flood that has come up to his neck, and he cries out to God for salvation. |
| 69:3 | David expresses his trust in God, saying, "But I will trust in you, Lord". |
| 69:4 | David describes the hatred of his enemies and the pain it causes him, and he cries out to God for deliverance. |
| 69:5 | David acknowledges that his suffering is not due to any sin he has committed, but rather because of his zeal for God's house and his desire to serve Him. |
2. The Cause of Suffering (Psalms 69:6-12)
| 69:6 | David explains that his suffering is not due to any sin he has committed, but rather because of his zeal for God's house and his desire to serve Him. |
| 69:7 | David describes the shame and ridicule he experiences because of his faith in God, and he cries out to God for deliverance. |
| 69:8 | David describes the pain of being rejected by his family and friends because of his faith in God. |
| 69:9 | David expresses his zeal for God's house and his desire to serve Him, and he cries out to God for deliverance. |
| 69:10 | David describes the insults and mockery he experiences because of his faith in God, and he cries out to God for deliverance. |
| 69:11 | David describes the pain of being ridiculed and mocked by his enemies, and he cries out to God for deliverance. |
| 69:12 | David describes the shame and humiliation he experiences because of his faith in God, and he cries out to God for deliverance. |
3. The Prayer for Deliverance (Psalms 69:13-21)
| 69:13 | David prays to God for deliverance from his enemies and for salvation from his suffering. |
| 69:14 | David expresses his trust in God and His power to save, and he cries out to God for deliverance. |
| 69:15 | David describes the pain of being trapped in the mire and the shame of being ridiculed by his enemies, and he cries out to God for deliverance. |
| 69:16 | David expresses his desire to hear from God and to experience His presence, and he cries out to God for deliverance. |
| 69:17 | David describes the pain of being rejected by God and the shame of being ridiculed by his enemies, and he cries out to God for deliverance. |
| 69:18 | David expresses his desire to be drawn out of the deep waters and to be saved from the floods, and he cries out to God for deliverance. |
| 69:19 | David describes the pain of being hated by his enemies and the shame of being ridiculed by them, and he cries out to God for deliverance. |
| 69:20 | David expresses his desire to be comforted by God and to experience His presence, and he cries out to God for deliverance. |
| 69:21 | David describes the pain of being given gall and vinegar to drink, and he cries out to God for deliverance. |
4. The Prophecies about Jesus Christ (Psalms 69:22-25)
| 69:22 | The chapter contains a prophecy about Jesus Christ, who would be rejected by the Jews and would suffer greatly for the sins of the world. |
| 69:23 | The prophecy describes the judgment that would come upon those who reject Jesus Christ and the blessings that would come upon those who trust in Him. |
| 69:24 | The prophecy describes the wrath of God that would be poured out upon those who reject Jesus Christ and the salvation that would come to those who trust in Him. |
| 69:25 | The prophecy describes the desolation and destruction that would come upon those who reject Jesus Christ and the peace and prosperity that would come to those who trust in Him. |
5. Conclusion (Psalms 69:26-36)
| 69:26 | The chapter ends with a expression of praise and worship to God, who is the helper of the needy and the saver of those who are crushed in spirit. |
| 69:27 | David expresses his desire to see the salvation of God and to experience His presence, and he cries out to God for deliverance. |
| 69:28 | David describes the shame and humiliation of being rejected by God and the pain of being ridiculed by his enemies, and he cries out to God for deliverance. |
| 69:29 | David expresses his desire to be drawn out of the deep waters and to be saved from the floods, and he cries out to God for deliverance. |
| 69:30 | David expresses his determination to praise God and to worship Him, even in the midst of difficulties. |
| 69:31 | David describes the joy and happiness of worshiping God and experiencing His presence, and he cries out to God for deliverance. |
| 69:32 | David expresses his desire to see the salvation of God and to experience His presence, and he cries out to God for deliverance. |
| 69:33 | David describes the joy and happiness of worshiping God and experiencing His presence, and he cries out to God for deliverance. |
| 69:34 | David expresses his desire to praise God and to worship Him, even in the midst of difficulties. |
| 69:35 | David describes the joy and happiness of worshiping God and experiencing His presence, and he cries out to God for deliverance. |
| 69:36 | The chapter ends with a expression of praise and worship to God, who is the helper of the needy and the saver of those who are crushed in spirit. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main theme of Psalms 69?
The main theme of Psalms 69 is suffering and trust in God. The chapter teaches us that suffering is a part of the Christian life, but it also teaches us that we can trust in God and praise Him, even in the midst of difficulties. For example, in Psalms 69:1, David says, "Save me, O God, for the waters have come up to my neck", which shows us that even in the midst of great distress, we can turn to God for help.
How does the chapter teach us to trust in God?
The chapter teaches us to trust in God by showing us that He is the helper of the needy and the saver of those who are crushed in spirit. It also teaches us that God is faithful and will deliver us from our enemies and from our suffering. For example, in Psalms 69:3, David says, "But I will trust in you, Lord", which shows us that even in the midst of great distress, we can trust in God.
What prophecies about Jesus Christ are contained in this chapter?
The chapter contains several prophecies about Jesus Christ, including His rejection by the Jews and His suffering for the sins of the world. For example, in Psalms 69:9, David says, "For zeal for your house has consumed me, and the insults of those who insult you have fallen on me", which is a prophecy about Jesus Christ and His passion for the house of God.
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Psalms 69:1 → Psalms 38:1 | Both chapters express a deep emotional pain and suffering, and both contain a cry for help and a expression of trust in God. |
| 2 | Psalms 69:3 → Psalms 13:5 | Both chapters express a determination to trust in God, even in the midst of difficulties and challenges. |
| 3 | Psalms 69:9 → John 2:13-22 | The verse is a prophecy about Jesus Christ and His passion for the house of God, and it is fulfilled in John 2:13-22, where Jesus cleanses the temple from the money changers and those who were using it for their own gain. |
| 4 | Psalms 69:21 → Matthew 27:34 | The verse is a prophecy about Jesus Christ and His suffering for the sins of the world, and it is fulfilled in Matthew 27:34, where Jesus is given gall and vinegar to drink. |
| 5 | Psalms 69:25 → Acts 1:20 | The verse is a prophecy about the judgment that would come upon those who reject Jesus Christ, and it is fulfilled in Acts 1:20, where the apostles quote the verse and apply it to Judas Iscariot. |
| 6 | Psalms 69:1 → Lamentations 3:1-20 | Both chapters express a deep emotional pain and suffering, and both contain a cry for help and a expression of trust in God. |
| 7 | Psalms 69:3 → Psalms 40:1-5 | Both chapters express a determination to trust in God, even in the midst of difficulties and challenges. |
| 8 | Psalms 69:9 → Romans 15:3 | The verse is a prophecy about Jesus Christ and His passion for the house of God, and it is quoted in Romans 15:3, where Paul applies it to Jesus Christ. |
| 9 | Psalms 69:21 → Mark 15:23 | The verse is a prophecy about Jesus Christ and His suffering for the sins of the world, and it is fulfilled in Mark 15:23, where Jesus is given gall and vinegar to drink. |
| 10 | Psalms 69:25 → 1 Peter 2:24 | The verse is a prophecy about the judgment that would come upon those who reject Jesus Christ, and it is quoted in 1 Peter 2:24, where Peter applies it to Jesus Christ and His suffering for the sins of the world. |
Sermons on Psalms 69
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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Don't Die in Your Wilderness by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of holding onto God's promises in times of trouble. He reminds the congregation that God has commanded them not to fear or be |
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Jehovah Rohi - the Lord Is My Shepherd by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal experience of walking on a beach at night during a financial crisis. He expresses his need for God's presence, love, and assurance. As |
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Improving Leadership Effectiveness by J. Oswald Sanders | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of leadership and delegation in various areas of life. He emphasizes the need to delegate work properly in order to avoid a one |
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Complete Salvation and How to Recieve It - Part 2 by Derek Prince | This sermon by Derek Prince delves into the all-encompassing benefits of salvation through Jesus Christ, highlighting various aspects of the exchange that took place on the cross. |
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Seven Words From the Cross - Obedience by Warren Wiersbe | In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the last words of Jesus on the cross, specifically focusing on the statement "I thirst." He emphasizes that even though it may seem like a |
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House of Prayer - Part 1 by Jim Cymbala | This sermon reflects on the powerful and unusual depiction of Jesus cleansing the temple, showcasing a side of him that is rarely seen - filled with righteous anger and authority. |
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Memory - the Handmaid of Hope by C.H. Spurgeon | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of remembering the promises of God in difficult times. He shares a story of a young man who had to prove his rightful inherit |
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Separation From False Worship, Idolatry & Popish Principles by John Calvin | In this sermon on Psalm 16:4, John Calvin emphasizes the importance of dedicating ourselves to God once we have come to know Him as our Father and Jesus Christ as our Redeemer. He |
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The Humble Will Soon Hear Your Song by Carter Conlon | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of God's presence in our lives. He describes the blessings that come with God's presence, such as a harmonious family and obe |
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Love of Christ Constraineth Me by William MacDonald | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the Apostle Paul's response to accusations of being beside himself. Paul explains that whether he appears zealous or sober, his actions are ei |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Psalms 69
Matthew Henry comments on Psalms 69, saying that it is a chapter that teaches us about the importance of trusting in God, even in the midst of great difficulties and challenges. He notes that the chapter contains several prophecies about Jesus Christ, including His rejection by the Jews and His suffering for the sins of the world. Henry also comments on the way that David expresses his emotions and pours out his heart to God in the chapter, saying that it is an example of how we should pray to God in times of trouble. He notes that the chapter ends with a expression of praise and worship to God, who is the helper of the needy and the saver of those who are crushed in spirit. Henry concludes by saying that the chapter teaches us that God is faithful and will deliver us from our enemies and from our suffering, and that we should trust in Him and praise Him, even in the midst of difficulties. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
The Emotional Pain of Suffering
David's emotional pain is evident throughout the chapter, as he cries out to God for help and expresses his deep sadness and despair. This shows us that suffering can be a very emotional and painful experience, but it also shows us that we can turn to God for comfort and help.
The Importance of Trust
The chapter emphasizes the importance of trusting in God, even when we do not understand what is happening in our lives. This is evident in David's statement, "But I will trust in you, Lord" (Psalms 69:3).
The Prophecies about Jesus Christ
The chapter contains several prophecies about Jesus Christ, including His rejection by the Jews and His suffering for the sins of the world. These prophecies show us that Jesus is the fulfillment of God's plan of salvation, and that He is the one who would suffer for the sins of the world.