Psalm 56 Meaning Explained

A prayer from one who is 'trampled' and whose tears are collected. Written when seized by Philistines, it confesses fear but immediately pivots: 'When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.' The enemies twist words and lurk, but God is for him. The triumphant conclusion: through God he can perform vows, walk in the light of life, and know his 'wanderings' are precious to God.

A clear explanation of Psalm 56, its meaning, context, and message for believers today

Psalms Chapter 56 | KJV

1. To the chief Musician upon Jonathelemrechokim, Michtam of David, when the Philistines took him in Gath. Be merciful unto me, O God: for man would swallow me up; he fighting daily oppresseth me.
2. Mine enemies would daily swallow me up: for they be many that fight against me, O thou most High.
3. What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee.
4. In God I will praise his word, in God I have put my trust; I will not fear what flesh can do unto me.
5. Every day they wrest my words: all their thoughts are against me for evil.
6. They gather themselves together, they hide themselves, they mark my steps, when they wait for my soul.
7. Shall they escape by iniquity? in thine anger cast down the people, O God.
8. Thou tellest my wanderings: put thou my tears into thy bottle: are they not in thy book?
9. When I cry unto thee, then shall mine enemies turn back: this I know; for God is for me.
10. In God will I praise his word: in the LORD will I praise his word.
11. In God have I put my trust: I will not be afraid what man can do unto me.
12. Thy vows are upon me, O God: I will render praises unto thee.
13. 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?

Historical Context

Psalm 56, attributed to David, was written during his capture by the Philistines, expressing trust despite fear and enemies.