King James Version
Psalm 28
As an individual lament in Book I, Psalm 28 records a passionate cry for help in a time of danger. The psalmist pleads not to be grouped with treacherous individuals who speak kindly while planning harm. After calling for justice against evildoers, the poem turns sharply toward joyful gratitude as God answers the supplication, expanding the prayer to request protection and shepherd-like care for the entire community. This movement from distress to thanksgiving illuminates how personal reliance connects to collective well-being. A memorable key verse states: "The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped." (Psalm 28:7).
1 Unto thee will I cry, O LORD my rock; be not silent to me: lest, if thou be silent to me, I become like them that go down into the pit.
2 Hear the voice of my supplications, when I cry unto thee, when I lift up my hands toward thy holy oracle.
3 Draw me not away with the wicked, and with the workers of iniquity, which speak peace to their neighbours, but mischief is in their hearts.
4 Give them according to their deeds, and according to the wickedness of their endeavours: give them after the work of their hands; render to them their desert.
5 Because they regard not the works of the LORD, nor the operation of his hands, he shall destroy them, and not build them up.
6 Blessed be the LORD, because he hath heard the voice of my supplications.
7 The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him.
8 The LORD is their strength, and he is the saving strength of his anointed.
9 Save thy people, and bless thine inheritance: feed them also, and lift them up for ever.
GO DEEPER
Carry this chapter with you
One personal verse every day, three layers of meaning, word studies and a place for your own reflection. Free to start.
