A Prayer of David. Combined lament and praise psalm.
Lament
v.1 David’s urgent request for God to hear his prayer.
v.2-7 Petitions for God to be gracious.
Praise
v.8-13 Praise to God for his acts and character.
11 Teach me your way, O Lord,
that I may walk in your truth;
unite my heart to fear your name.
Lament
v.14 Poet’s crisis—a band of ruthless men seeks my life.
v.15 Confidence in God. (Quoting Ex 34:6b)
v.16-17 Petition for God’s grace.
It is mercy and grace that we should petition God for in our prayers. God will answer not because we deserve it, but because of his steadfast love.