The meaning of Psalm 5 is a cry to the Lord for protection. Once again, King David was surrounded by his enemies. These scriptures record the prayer of a man who was fully dependent upon God for deliverance and protection. As with Psalms 3 and 4, Psalm 5 is connected to David’s conflict with his rebellious son, Absalom (2 Samuel 15:1–6, “Absalom’s Conspiracy” In the course of time, Absalom provided himself with a chariot and horses and with fifty men to run ahead of him. He would get up early and stand by the side of the road leading to the city gate. Whenever anyone came with a complaint to be placed before the king for a decision, Absalom would call out to him, “What town are you from?” He would answer, “Your servant is from one of the tribes of Israel.” Then Absalom would say to him, “Look, your claims are valid and proper, but there is no representative of the king to hear you.” And Absalom would add, “If only I were appointed judge in the land! Then everyone who has a complaint or case could come to me and I would see that they receive justice.” Also, whenever anyone approached him to bow down before him, Absalom would reach out his hand, take hold of him and kiss him. Absalom behaved in this way toward all the Israelites who came to the king asking for justice, and so he stole the hearts of the people of Israel.) After winning a large following, Absalom attempted a murderous coup against his father (2 Samuel 15:13–14, “David Flees” A messenger came and told David, “The hearts of the people of Israel are with Absalom.” Then David said to all his officials who were with him in Jerusalem, “Come! We must flee, or none of us will escape from Absalom. We must leave immediately, or he will move quickly to overtake us and bring ruin on us and put the city to the sword.”) David’s writing in these several psalms includes his thoughts and feelings during this dangerous time (Psalm 3:1, Lord, how many are my foes! How many rise up against me!)
It reads in Psalm 5:1-12,
“For the director of music. For pipes. A psalm of David.”
Listen to my words, Lord, consider my lament. Hear my cry for help, my King and my God, for to you I pray. In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly. For you are not a God who is pleased with wickedness; with you, evil people are not welcome. The arrogant cannot stand in your presence. You hate all who do wrong; you destroy those who tell lies. The bloodthirsty and deceitful you, Lord, detest. But I, by your great love, can come into your house; in reverence I bow down toward your holy temple. Lead me, Lord, in your righteousness because of my enemies, make your way straight before me. Not a word from their mouth can be trusted; their heart is filled with malice. Their throat is an open grave; with their tongues they tell lies. Declare them guilty, O God! Let their intrigues be their downfall. Banish them for their many sins, for they have rebelled against you. But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you. Surely, Lord, you bless the righteous; you surround them with your favor as with a shield.

Father God, the increasing wickedness, crime, violence and the news on Television is crazy. I don’t even want to see the mess. This world I thank You that I by-pass a lot of it through Your protection of Your armor. Direct my path for what You would have me do. Morning to evening to morning again. Thank You for comfort and watching over me while I sleep. Help me to trust You, Your word and promises each day. I thank You and praise You that no matter what happens in this world, You have promised to be with me. You are my Provider, Protector, defense and defender. No weapon formed against me shall prosper. I thank You and praise You for Your indwelling Holy Spirit and Your peace that passes all understanding, where I can rest in Your love and praise Your holy name. I thank You and praise You that I have been brought into Your family, by grace through faith in Jesus Christ Amen.


“Power Verses”
The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.

Lamentations 3:22-23 ESV

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