Finding Strength in God: A Coptic Orthodox Commentary on Psalm 56

Executive Summary ✨

Psalm 56, often titled “When I Am Afraid, I Trust in You,” is a profound expression of David’s faith amidst profound adversity, specifically his capture by the Philistines in Gath. This psalm reveals the heart of a man deeply reliant on God’s protection, mercy, and deliverance. Our trust in God’s protection isn’t just a theoretical exercise; it’s a lived experience, a daily choice to anchor our hope in His unwavering faithfulness. It moves through fear, acknowledging the reality of our human vulnerability, and transforms it into a powerful affirmation of God’s sovereignty. David’s words resonate with believers across ages and cultures who find themselves facing life’s challenges. He teaches us that faith is not the absence of fear, but the courage to act in spite of it, knowing that God is our refuge and strength. The psalm ultimately points to Christ, our ultimate Protector and Redeemer, whose sacrifice allows us to approach God with confidence and boldness. This commentary delves into each verse, offering spiritual insights rooted in Coptic Orthodox tradition, patristic wisdom, and practical application for our modern lives.

Introduction

Psalm 56 is a *Miktam* (a term of uncertain meaning but likely indicating a precious or inscription) of David, written when he was seized by the Philistines in Gath (1 Samuel 21:10-15). This historical context is vital because it highlights the extreme danger David faced. He was in enemy territory, his life hanging in the balance. It’s in moments like these that the soul cries out, seeking solace and strength. The psalm serves as a blueprint for how to navigate fear and uncertainty by turning to God. It’s a testament to the power of prayer and unwavering faith in the face of overwhelming odds. The Coptic Orthodox Church embraces this psalm as a vital expression of faith and uses it as a constant encouragement to cling to God, who is our refuge, especially in times of affliction. Let us now explore how to find trust in God’s protection when faced with times of need.

Commentary on Psalm 56

Verse 1 (KJV): Be merciful unto me, O God: for man would swallow me up; he fighting daily oppresseth me.

Verse 1 (NKJV): Be merciful to me, O God, for man would swallow me up; Fighting all day he oppresses me.

Hebrew (Masoretic Text): חָנֵּנִי אֱלֹהִים כִּי־שְׁאָפַנִי אֱנוֹשׁ כָּל־הַיּוֹם לֹחֵם יִלְחָצֵנִי

David begins with a plea for mercy. The phrase “man would swallow me up” vividly portrays the overwhelming sense of being consumed by enemies. This imagery evokes the fear of being utterly destroyed. He cries out not for a change in circumstances, but for God’s divine mercy. The daily oppression he faces highlights the relentless nature of his struggle.

Spiritual Application: In our own lives, we may encounter situations that feel overwhelming, as if we’re being swallowed up by problems. Like David, we should turn to God and plead for His mercy. Recognize your dependence on God’s grace, acknowledging that without Him, we are easily overcome. Do you need help getting your services online? Dohost is here to help you.

Patristic Insight: St. Athanasius the Great wrote extensively on the importance of mercy in our relationship with God. He stated, “ἡ γὰρ ἀγάπη τοῦ θεοῦ πρὸς τὸν ἄνθρωπον δείκνυται ἐν τῷ ἐλεεῖν αὐτόν” (“For the love of God towards man is shown in His showing mercy to him,” *Contra Arianos*, Book 3). This highlights that God’s love is intrinsically linked to his mercy.

Verse 2 (KJV): Mine enemies would daily swallow me up: for they be many that fight against me, O thou most High.

Verse 2 (NKJV): My enemies would daily swallow me up; For there are many who fight against me, O Most High.

Hebrew (Masoretic Text): שָׁאֲפוּ שֹׁורְרַי כָּל־הַיּוֹם כִּי־רַבִּים לֹחֲמִים לִי מָרוֹם

David reiterates the relentless nature of his enemies’ attacks, emphasizing their multitude and power. He then appeals to God as “Most High,” acknowledging His supreme authority and power over all earthly forces. He recognizes that while his enemies are many, God is infinitely greater.

Spiritual Application: Reflect on the “enemies” you face – not just people, but also temptations, anxieties, or challenging circumstances. Acknowledge the reality of these struggles, but remember that God is greater than any problem you face. Meditate on God’s sovereignty and power. Even in the face of daily struggles, God’s sovereignty remains constant.

Connection to Deuterocanonical Books: The book of Wisdom (3:1) states: “But the souls of the righteous are in the hand of God, and no torment will ever touch them.” This echoes the idea of God being our ultimate protector and refuge, even in the face of overwhelming adversity.

Verse 3 (KJV): What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee.

Verse 3 (NKJV): Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You.

Hebrew (Masoretic Text): יוֹם אִירָא אֲנִי אֵלֶיךָ אֶבְטָח

This is the pivotal verse of the psalm. David acknowledges the reality of fear (“What time I am afraid”). He doesn’t deny or suppress his fear but chooses to proactively trust in God. This verse isn’t about the absence of fear, but the presence of faith *in* fear. It’s an active choice, a conscious decision to place one’s reliance on God’s character and promises.

Spiritual Application: This verse is a call to action. When fear arises, consciously choose to turn to God. Develop practical strategies for trusting in Him, such as prayer, scripture reading, or recalling past experiences where He demonstrated His faithfulness. Practice recognizing the signs of fear and proactively choosing trust. This is central to our trust in God’s protection.

Patristic Insight: St. Anthony the Great often spoke of conquering fear through prayer and a focus on God. He emphasized that true strength comes not from ourselves but from God’s indwelling presence. He taught his monks to arm themselves with the sign of the Cross, and the invocation of the Name of Jesus.

Verse 4 (KJV): In God I will praise his word, in God I have put my trust; I will not fear what flesh can do unto me.

Verse 4 (NKJV): In God I will praise His word, In God I have put my trust; I will not fear what flesh can do to me.

Hebrew (Masoretic Text): בֵּאלֹהִים אֲהַלֵּל דְּבָרוֹ בֵּאלֹהִים בָּטַחְתִּי לֹא אִירָא מַה־יַּעֲשֶׂה בָשָׂר לִי

David reaffirms his trust in God and emphasizes the importance of praising His word. Praising God’s word suggests a deep knowledge and acceptance of His promises. “I will not fear what flesh can do unto me” reflects a confidence in God’s ultimate protection, even in the face of physical harm. He does not belittle the pain or loss of harm inflicted by flesh, but he puts trust in the only hope that stands the tests of time.

Spiritual Application: Immerse yourself in God’s word, the Holy Bible, and meditate on its promises. Find scriptures that address your fears and anxieties. Memorize and repeat these verses as a reminder of God’s faithfulness. Practice praising God even in difficult circumstances, as an act of faith. Do you need prayer? Please seek the prayer of the saints, which avails much.

Verse 5 (KJV): Every day they wrest my words: all their thoughts are against me for evil.

Verse 5 (NKJV): All day they twist my words; All their thoughts are against me for evil.

Hebrew (Masoretic Text): כָּל־הַיּוֹם דְּבָרַי יְעַצֵּבוּ עָלַי כָּל־מַחְשְׁבֹתָם לָרָע

Here, David describes the malicious actions of his enemies: twisting his words and constantly plotting evil against him. This speaks to the psychological and emotional toll of being constantly targeted and misunderstood. The attack is not just physical but also verbal and mental.

Spiritual Application: Recognize that attacks can come in various forms, including words and thoughts. When faced with negativity, guard your heart and mind. Seek God’s wisdom in how to respond. Remember that Jesus Christ was also misunderstood and maligned. Follow His example of responding with grace and truth.

Verse 6 (KJV): They gather themselves together, they hide themselves, they mark my steps, when they wait for my soul.

Verse 6 (NKJV): They gather together, They hide, they mark my steps, When they lie in wait for my life.

Hebrew (Masoretic Text): יָגוּרוּ יָצְפֹּו הֵמָּה עֲקֵבַי יִשְׁמֹרוּ כַּאֲשֶׁר קִוּוּ נַפְשִׁי

David continues to depict the insidious nature of his enemies, describing their secretive gatherings, hidden plots, and relentless pursuit. “They mark my steps” conveys the idea that they are constantly monitoring him, waiting for an opportunity to strike. This paints a picture of constant surveillance and impending danger.

Spiritual Application: Be aware of the spiritual “enemies” that lie in wait for you, such as temptations, negative influences, or destructive habits. Pray for discernment to recognize these dangers and for strength to resist them. Stay vigilant and don’t become complacent. Be aware of evil’s machinations and plots.

Verse 7 (KJV): Shall they escape by iniquity? in thine anger cast down the people, O God.

Verse 7 (NKJV): Shall they escape by iniquity? In anger cast down the peoples, O God!

Hebrew (Masoretic Text): עַל־אָוֶן פַּלֶּט־לָמוֹ בְּאַף הֹרֵד עַמִּים אֱלֹהִים

David expresses his desire for justice, asking whether his enemies will escape punishment for their wickedness. He asks God to cast down the people. In Orthodox understanding, this verse isn’t necessarily a call for vengeance but a plea for God to uphold righteousness and prevent evil from prevailing. It’s an appeal for divine justice to prevail.

Spiritual Application: Trust in God’s justice, even when you don’t see immediate consequences for wrongdoing. Don’t seek revenge, but entrust the situation to God, knowing that He will ultimately right all wrongs. Pray for the conversion of your enemies, but also for justice to be served in accordance with God’s will. God judges with righteousness, let him handle the judgement.

Verse 8 (KJV): Thou tellest my wanderings: put thou my tears into thy bottle: are they not in thy book?

Verse 8 (NKJV): You number my wanderings; Put my tears into Your bottle; Are they not in Your book?

Hebrew (Masoretic Text): נֹדִי סָפַרְתָּה אָתָּה שִׂימָה דִמְעָתִי בְנֹאדֶךָ הֲלֹא בְּסִפְרָתֶךָ

This verse is deeply personal and moving. David expresses the intimacy of God’s care, noting that God “tells my wanderings” – He knows every detail of David’s struggles and hardships. The image of God putting his tears into a bottle and recording them in a book speaks to God’s attentiveness and compassion. God sees, God cares, God remembers.

Spiritual Application: Take comfort in knowing that God sees your suffering and cares deeply about your pain. Pour out your heart to Him in prayer, knowing that He hears and understands. Believe that your tears are not unnoticed or unvalued by God. He keeps a record of every tear. Remember that God is always with you, even in your darkest moments.

Scientific/Archaeological Context: The practice of collecting tears in bottles (lacrimaria) was common in ancient cultures, including the Near East. This adds a tangible dimension to David’s metaphor, highlighting the value and significance placed on tears of grief and sorrow. This helps us know to whom we are speaking.

Verse 9 (KJV): When I cry unto thee, then shall mine enemies turn back: this I know; for God is for me.

Verse 9 (NKJV): When I cry out to You, Then my enemies will turn back; This I know, because God is for me.

Hebrew (Masoretic Text): אָז יָשׁוּבוּ אוֹיְבַי אָחוֹר בְּיוֹם אֶקְרָא זֶה יָדַעְתִּי כִּי־אֱלֹהִים לִי

David expresses confidence that when he cries out to God, his enemies will turn back. This confidence stems from his conviction that “God is for me.” It is a testament to the power of prayer and the assurance of God’s presence and support. Prayer is not just a ritual, but a powerful connection to a loving and powerful God.

Spiritual Application: Develop a consistent prayer life, trusting that God hears and answers your prayers. Cultivate a deep sense of God’s presence and support in your life. Remember that you are not alone in your struggles; God is always with you, fighting for you.

Verse 10 (KJV): In God will I praise his word: in the Lord will I praise his word.

Verse 10 (NKJV): In God I will praise His word, In the Lord I will praise His word.

Hebrew (Masoretic Text): בֵּאלֹהִים אֲהַלֵּל דָּבָר בַּיהוָה אֲהַלֵּל דָּבָר

David reiterates his intention to praise God’s word, emphasizing that his praise is directed both to God (Elohim) and to the Lord (Yahweh). This repetition reinforces the importance of focusing on God’s promises and character.

Spiritual Application: Make praise a regular part of your life. Find ways to express your gratitude to God, both in private prayer and in public worship. Focus on God’s word and allow it to fill your heart with joy and hope.

Verse 11 (KJV): In God have I put my trust: I will not be afraid what man can do unto me.

Verse 11 (NKJV): In God I have put my trust; I will not be afraid of what man can do to me.

Hebrew (Masoretic Text): בֵּאלֹהִים בָּטַחְתִּי לֹא אִירָא מַה־יַּעֲשֶׂה אָדָם לִי

Again, David affirms his trust in God, declaring that he will not be afraid of what man can do to him. This reinforces his reliance on God’s protection and his confidence in God’s power to overcome any threat. It is a bold declaration of faith in the face of adversity.

Spiritual Application: Confront your fears by placing your trust in God. Ask yourself what you are truly afraid of and then intentionally choose to rely on God’s promises. Remember that God is greater than any fear or threat you face. Make this your constant confession.

Verse 12 (KJV): Thy vows are upon me, O God: I will render praises unto thee.

Verse 12 (NKJV): Vows are binding on me, O God; I will render praises to You.

Hebrew (Masoretic Text): עָלַי אֱלֹהִים נְדָרֶיךָ אֲשַׁלֵּם תּוֹדֹת לָךְ

David acknowledges his obligations to God, recognizing that he has made vows that he must fulfill. This suggests a sense of commitment and responsibility in his relationship with God. He also expresses his intention to render praises to God as an act of gratitude.

Spiritual Application: Reflect on the vows you have made to God, whether explicitly or implicitly. Strive to keep your promises and fulfill your obligations. Express your gratitude to God through acts of worship, service, and obedience.

Verse 13 (KJV): For thou hast delivered my soul from death: wilt not thou deliver my feet from falling, that I may walk before God in the light of the living?

Verse 13 (NKJV): For You have delivered my soul from death. Have You not kept my feet from falling, That I may walk before God In the light of the living?

Hebrew (Masoretic Text): כִּי־הִצַּלְתָּ נַפְשִׁי מִמָּוֶת הֲלֹא רַגְלַי מִדֶּחִי לְהִתְהַלֵּךְ לִפְנֵי אֱלֹהִים בְּאוֹר הַחַיִּים

David concludes the psalm by reflecting on God’s past deliverance and expressing his hope for continued protection. He acknowledges that God has saved him from death and expresses his desire to “walk before God in the light of the living.” This conveys the idea of living a life that is pleasing to God, characterized by righteousness and holiness. He is looking forward to the light of the Lord, that shines through us all.

Spiritual Application: Reflect on God’s faithfulness in your own life. Remember the times when He has delivered you from danger or difficulty. Commit yourself to living a life that is pleasing to Him, seeking to walk in His ways and reflect His light to the world. Strive to live in a way that pleases God.

Key Reflections on Trust in God 💡

Throughout Psalm 56, several crucial themes emerge, offering us guidance on cultivating a deeper relationship with God and finding strength in times of adversity:

The Reality of Fear: David doesn’t deny his fear; he acknowledges it. This honesty is crucial. We must admit our vulnerabilities to God.
The Power of Choice: Trusting God is an active choice, not a passive feeling. We decide to place our reliance on Him despite our fears.
The Importance of God’s Word: Praising and meditating on God’s word is a powerful weapon against fear and doubt. It reminds us of His promises and character.
God’s Attentive Care: God sees our suffering, hears our prayers, and remembers our tears. We are not alone in our struggles.
Living in the Light: Our ultimate goal is to live a life that is pleasing to God, reflecting His light to the world.
Prayer is Key: Remember prayer avails us to much. Always seek prayer from the Saints.

FAQ ❓

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding how to apply Psalm 56 to our lives today:

Q: How can I practically “trust in God” when I’m overwhelmed with fear?

A: Start by acknowledging your fear to God in prayer. Then, actively recall past experiences where God demonstrated His faithfulness. Meditate on scriptures that speak to His power and protection, and intentionally choose to place your reliance on Him, one moment at a time.
Q: What if I feel like my prayers aren’t being answered?

A: Remember that God’s timing and ways are not always our own. Continue to pray persistently, trusting that He hears you and is working behind the scenes. Seek guidance from trusted spiritual mentors and continue to study God’s Holy Word.
Q: How can I protect myself from the “twisting of words” that David experienced?

A: Develop discernment by spending time in prayer and studying God’s word. Be careful about who you share your thoughts and feelings with. Surround yourself with supportive and trustworthy people who speak truth in love.
Q: How can this Psalm apply to grief and loss?

A: Psalm 56 reminds us that God sees our tears and knows our wanderings. We can find comfort in knowing that He understands our pain and offers solace in our grief. It encourages us to entrust our sorrow to Him and to trust in His promise of healing and restoration.

Conclusion

Psalm 56 serves as a timeless guide for navigating fear and uncertainty by turning to God. The focus key phrase “trust in God’s protection” is not just about finding temporary relief, but about cultivating a deep and abiding faith that sustains us through life’s most challenging circumstances. Through David’s words, we learn that acknowledging our fears is not a sign of weakness but a necessary step towards experiencing God’s power and presence. We will be in the face of uncertainty. We can choose to actively trust in God’s protection. It is a constant theme throughout the Holy Bible, that God is always looking out for us. As Coptic Orthodox Christians, we are called to embody this trust, drawing strength from the sacraments, the prayers of the saints, and the rich spiritual tradition of our Church. May we all walk before God in the light of the living, confident in His unwavering love and protection.

Meta Description

Explore a verse-by-verse Coptic Orthodox commentary on Psalm 56: “When I Am Afraid, I Trust in You.” Discover how to find trust in God’s protection amidst fear, drawing from Scripture, Patristic wisdom, and practical applications.