Old Testament
Psalms 55:1
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Listen to my prayer, O God, and do not hide yourself from my supplication.
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Give ear to my prayer, O God; and hide not thyself from my supplication.
What Psalms 55:1 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the psalmist is earnestly asking God to listen to his prayer and to be present in his time of need. The plea reflects a deep sense of urgency and desperation, as the psalmist feels that God may be distant or unresponsive. The use of the word 'supplication' indicates a heartfelt request, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation. The psalmist is not just making a casual prayer; he is seeking God's attention and intervention in a troubling time. This verse highlights the importance of communication with God, especially when one is feeling overwhelmed or abandoned. It serves as a reminder that in moments of distress, believers can turn to God with their concerns, trusting that He hears and cares for their needs. The emotional weight of the plea underscores the relationship between the believer and God, where the believer seeks reassurance of God's presence and support during difficult times.
How to apply Psalms 55:1 to your life
When facing challenges, remember to bring your concerns to God in prayer. Like the psalmist, express your feelings honestly and seek His presence. Trust that God hears you and is attentive to your needs, even when it feels like He is distant.
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At a Glance — the Book of Psalms
- Author
- David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
- Written
- Around 1000-500 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and worship
- Original Audience
- Worshipers of Israel
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Psalms 55:1 mean?
Psalms 55:1 expresses a heartfelt plea from the psalmist to God, asking Him to listen to his prayer and not to hide from his supplication. This verse conveys a sense of urgency and desperation, highlighting the psalmist's need for God's presence and intervention during troubling times. It emphasizes the importance of sincere communication with God, especially when feeling overwhelmed or abandoned.
How can I apply Psalms 55:1 in my life?
To apply Psalms 55:1 in your life, approach God in prayer with honesty about your feelings and challenges. Just as the psalmist seeks God's attention, you can express your concerns and desires, trusting that God hears you. This verse encourages you to maintain open communication with God, especially in difficult moments, reminding you that He is always present and attentive to your needs.
What is the significance of 'supplication' in this verse?
The term 'supplication' in Psalms 55:1 signifies a deep, earnest request made to God. It indicates that the psalmist is not merely making a casual prayer but is genuinely seeking God's help and intervention in a serious situation. This highlights the intensity of the psalmist's feelings and the importance of approaching God with sincerity and urgency when in distress.
Why does the psalmist feel God might be distant?
The psalmist feels God might be distant due to the overwhelming nature of his troubles and the emotional weight of his situation. This sense of distance can arise when one is experiencing pain, fear, or uncertainty, leading to feelings of abandonment. Psalms 55:1 captures this struggle, reminding believers that it's natural to feel this way but that they can still reach out to God in prayer.
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