Psalms 86

This is the only Psalm connected to David in the third book.

God’s devoted servant prays for mercy. The psalmist sees himself as a member of the covenant community and as a citizen of the world.

The psalmist cries out to God for help and praises God’s character while facing evil (Psalm 86:14, 17). He says that all nations will one day worship the gracious and powerful God (Psalm 86:8–10). Because of this hope, the psalmist commits himself to live in a right and honest way (Psalm 86:11) and to praise the Lord (86:12–13).

The final section contrasts the behavior of evil people with the character of the Lord (Psalm 86:14–17).

The psalmist lists God's perfect qualities (Exodus 34:6–7), especially God's readiness to forgive sin (see Psalms 32:5; 85:2; 145:7–10).

The psalmist appeals to God to remain true to his character, which is the basis for hope.

All the nations must submit themselves to the Lord and worship him (Psalms 45:17; 117:1; 148:7–11).

• The poet responds to the Lord by seeking faithful instruction in the truth.

• A person with an undivided heart has integrity and wholeness (see Psalm 73:1).

In anticipation of God’s rescue, the psalmist praises him and trusts in his goodness.

Arrogant people exist both inside and outside the community. The psalmist asks God to show his character. God is so great that even a small glimpse of his goodness will silence the wicked.

God shows mercy to his people (Psalm 51:1). God is compassionate (Psalm 25:6). God is slow to become angry (Psalms 103:8; 145:8). God is full of loving devotion and faithfulness (Hebrew khesed and ’emeth; Psalm 143:1)

This verse repeats a theme first expressed in Exodus 34:7; Numbers 14:18 (compare Psalms 103:8; 145:8; Nehemiah 9:17; Joel 2:13; Jonah 4:2).