Psalm 13
A Cry Not to Be Forgotten
A Cry Not to Be Forgotten
Psalm 13. This is a psalm of David, no doubt composed at a time of great trial, such as when fleeing from Saul or when in exile during the rebellion of Absalom. Prophetically, this Psalm captures the expressions and prayers of the faithful remnant in the great tribulation, as the ungodly seem to reign unchecked, and Jehovah still refrains from intervening. The faithful feel that God has forgotten them, but are content to wait (Isa. 8:17).1
PSALM 13
To the chief Musician. A Psalm of David.
1 How long, Jehovah, wilt thou forget me for ever? how long wilt thou hide thy face from me?
2 How long shall I take counsel in my soul, with sorrow in my heart daily? how long shall mine enemy be exalted over me?
3 Consider, answer me, O Jehovah my God! lighten mine eyes, lest I sleep the sleep of death;
4 Lest mine enemy say, I have prevailed against him! lest mine adversaries be joyful when I am moved.
vv.1-4 Their Cry. The faith will cry out to Jehovah not to forget them. It appears that the duration of the trial is weighing on them. They repeat the expression “how long?” over and over again. They believe that if the trial continues for much longer without the intervention of Jehovah their God, they too will suffer the fate of many of their brethren; to “sleep the sleep of death”.
5 As for me, I have confided in thy loving-kindness; my heart shall be joyful in thy salvation.
6 I will sing unto Jehovah, for he hath dealt bountifully with me.
vv.5-6 Their Confidence. Nevertheless they have the confidence in the loving-kindness of Jehovah, and their hearts look forward joyfully to His salvation. They also look back on the Lord’s bountiful grace to them in the past. This is the patience of faith; faith can sing in times of trial!