Study notes

Psalms 59

Introducing PsalmsWho wrote it, when, why, and what to look for as you read

51:1–65:13

These psalms of David share a common theme. They reflect on the experience of evil. In Psalm 51, the psalmist admits his wrongdoing and asks for God's forgiveness. Psalms 52–64 express sorrow over specific evils David faced. A song of praise (Psalm 65) brings David's laments to an end.

59:1–2

protect me (or lift me up high): When surrounded by evil, the godly pray for God to set them apart for himself and protect them.

59:1–17

The psalmist laments the power of enemies who conspire with other nations.

59:4–5

The psalmist asks God not to show mercy to the treacherous, deceptive, and wicked traitors (see Psalm 25:2).

59:6–8

The wicked threaten like aggressive dogs, but the Lord shows that he does not fear them.

59:11–13

The psalmist prays that the wicked will suffer the same pain they have caused others.

59:14–16

The wicked will remain unsatisfied, but the psalmist will praise the Lord's strength and loving devotion.

Verse notes: Adapted by Mission Mutual (Aquifer Open Study Notes) from Tyndale Open Study Notes © 2023 Tyndale House Publishers. CC BY-SA 4.0. Section notes: Biblica Study Notes © 2023 Biblica, Inc. CC BY-SA 4.0, via BibleAquifer. About the sources