Psalms 55

Psalms 55:1-23

The psalmist faces enemies led by a former friend (Psalm 55:12–14). This causes him great distress. He prays to the Lord and trusts him for justice (Psalm 55:22–23).

Jesus went through similar pain when Judas, his friend, betrayed him. He also experienced the psalmist’s prayer being answered:

1. by taking the place of the wicked and receiving their punishment (Isaiah 53:7–9), and

2. by trusting the Father, who saved (Luke 23:46) and rewarded him (Isaiah 53:10–12).

Psalms 55:1-3

The occasion for this prayer is an attack by an enemy.

Psalms 55:4-8

In the experience of deep anguish, the psalmist confesses that his adversity has become unbearable and he seeks an escape.

Psalms 55:12-20

The psalmist's enemy used to be a friend. Remembering their close relationship causes him pain (see Psalm 31:11).

Psalms 55:19-21

God is good and faithful, but the psalmist’s enemies and so-called friend are deceitful and wicked.

Psalms 55:22-23

The psalmist commits all his cares to the Lord.

Psalms 55:23

To die young means missing out on God's full blessings (compare Proverbs 3:2, 16).

Aquifer Open Study Notes © 2026 Mission Mutual, an adaptation of the Tyndale Open Study Notes © 2023 Tyndale House Publishers. Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.