Psalms 141

In this final group of psalms of David, psalms of praise and wisdom (Psalms 138–139, 145) form a frame around five psalms of lament (Psalms 140–144).

• The psalmist urgently prays for rescue. He does not have incense or an evening offering (Exodus 29:38–39), but his prayers and devotion represent those elements (see Isaiah 1:13; Revelation 5:8).

• uplifted hands: This is a posture of prayer (Psalms 28:2; 88:9; 143:6; Exodus 9:29; 1 Timothy 2:8).

The psalmist prays for rescue and for wisdom. He also looks ahead to the end of evil. The idea that people receive what they deserve (Psalm 141:10) holds the psalm together.

• Wisdom sometimes requires protection from oneself. People might say or think things that lead to a harmful path (Proverbs 13:3; 21:23).

• Wisdom accepts correction from godly people (see Proverbs 3:11; 9:8; 15:31; 19:25).