Psalm 4

For the director of music. With stringed instruments. A psalm of David.

1 Answer me when I call to you,
   my righteous God.
Give me relief from my distress;
   have mercy on me and hear my prayer.

2 How long will you people turn my glory into shame?
   How long will you love delusions and seek false gods
3 Know that the Lord has set apart his faithful servant for himself;
   the Lord hears when I call to him.

4 Tremble and do not sin;
   when you are on your beds,
   search your hearts and be silent.
5 Offer the sacrifices of the righteous
   and trust in the Lord.

6 Many, Lord, are asking, “Who will bring us prosperity?”
   Let the light of your face shine on us.
7 Fill my heart with joy
   when their grain and new wine abound.

8 In peace I will lie down and sleep,
   for you alone, Lord,
   make me dwell in safety.

Commentary

The Psalmist has confidence that God will hear his prayer and save him from trouble. The Psalmist states that those who worship gods other than YHWH are delusional as they pray to false gods. There is only one true living God, and he has proven this by raising his son from the dead and who gave the Torah to Moses.

The Psalmist urges others not to sin by breaking the laws written in the Torah because YHWH is a righteous God who hates sins. The words 'Let the light of your face shine on us' means that the Psalmist is asking God to bless him and those who trust in God through God's divine presence in the form of Shekinah.