Psalm 86 Meaning Explained

A mosaic of Davidic prayers, the only one labeled 'of David' in Book III. It weaves together petitions for mercy, joy, and strength with declarations of God’s uniqueness and steadfast love. The psalmist identifies as 'poor and needy' and 'your servant,' appealing to God’s character to 'turn to me and be gracious.' It’s a humble, personal synthesis of trust, asking for a sign of God’s favor to confound adversaries.

A clear explanation of Psalm 86, its meaning, context, and message for believers today

Psalms Chapter 86 | KJV

1. A Prayer of David. Bow down thine ear, O LORD, hear me: for I am poor and needy.
2. Preserve my soul; for I am holy: O thou my God, save thy servant that trusteth in thee.
3. Be merciful unto me, O Lord: for I cry unto thee daily.
4. Rejoice the soul of thy servant: for unto thee, O Lord, do I lift up my soul.
5. For thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive; and plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon thee.
6. Give ear, O LORD, unto my prayer; and attend to the voice of my supplications.
7. In the day of my trouble I will call upon thee: for thou wilt answer me.
8. Among the gods there is none like unto thee, O Lord; neither are there any works like unto thy works.
9. All nations whom thou hast made shall come and worship before thee, O Lord; and shall glorify thy name.
10. For thou art great, and doest wondrous things: thou art God alone.
11. Teach me thy way, O LORD; I will walk in thy truth: unite my heart to fear thy name.
12. I will praise thee, O Lord my God, with all my heart: and I will glorify thy name for evermore.
13. For great is thy mercy toward me: and thou hast delivered my soul from the lowest hell.
14. O God, the proud are risen against me, and the assemblies of violent men have sought after my soul; and have not set thee before them.
15. But thou, O Lord, art a God full of compassion, and gracious, longsuffering, and plenteous in mercy and truth.
16. O turn unto me, and have mercy upon me; give thy strength unto thy servant, and save the son of thine handmaid.
17. shew me a token for good; that they which hate me may see it, and be ashamed: because thou, LORD, hast holpen me, and comforted me.

Historical Context

Psalm 86, attributed to David, expresses personal lament, trust, and devotion, appealing for God’s mercy and guidance.

Phrase by Phrase

Bow down thine ear, O LORD, hear me: Humble appeal for God’s attention to prayer.
Preserve my soul, for I am holy: Acknowledgment of dependence on God and desire for guidance.
Teach me thy way, O LORD: Prayer for instruction and righteous living.

Application for Today

Believers can approach God humbly, seek His guidance, and trust His protection and mercy.

FAQs

Q: What is the main theme of Psalm 86?
A: God’s mercy, protection, and prayerful devotion.

Q: Why does David appeal humbly?
A: To show dependence and reverence for God.

Q: What is requested from God?
A: Protection, guidance, and mercy.

Q: How can this psalm apply today?
A: Pray humbly, seek God’s guidance, and trust His protection.

Conclusion

Psalm 86 teaches humility, prayerful devotion, and trust in God’s mercy and protection.