King James Version
Psalm 142
Sheltered in a cave during a moment of intense isolation, David pours out his complaint when feeling overwhelmed and abandoned by friends. He finds hope by remembering that even when human support fails, a higher refuge remains. Standing as a poignant entry in the final Davidic series (Psalms 138 through 145), this prayer captures the solitary struggle of facing overwhelming odds before returning to community praise. A key verse highlights this personal anchor: "Thou art my refuge and my portion in the land of the living." (Psalm 142:5). The psalm speaks candidly to feelings of loneliness.
1 I cried unto the LORD with my voice; with my voice unto the LORD did I make my supplication.
2 I poured out my complaint before him; I shewed before him my trouble.
3 When my spirit was overwhelmed within me, then thou knewest my path. In the way wherein I walked have they privily laid a snare for me.
4 I looked on my right hand, and beheld, but there was no man that would know me: refuge failed me; no man cared for my soul.
5 I cried unto thee, O LORD: I said, Thou art my refuge and my portion in the land of the living.
6 Attend unto my cry; for I am brought very low: deliver me from my persecutors; for they are stronger than I.
7 Bring my soul out of prison, that I may praise thy name: the righteous shall compass me about; for thou shalt deal bountifully with me.
GO DEEPER
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