I cry aloud
The phrase "I cry aloud" in Psalm 142:1 reflects a deep, vocal expression of distress and supplication. The Hebrew root for "cry" is "זָעַק" (za'aq), which conveys a sense of shouting or calling out with intensity. This is not a silent prayer but a vocal plea, emphasizing the urgency and desperation of the psalmist's situation. Historically, crying aloud in prayer was a common practice in ancient Israel, signifying earnestness and a desire for God's immediate attention. This act of crying out is a demonstration of faith, acknowledging that God hears and responds to the cries of His people.

to the LORD
The phrase "to the LORD" identifies the recipient of the psalmist's cry. The Hebrew word for "LORD" is "יהוה" (YHWH), the sacred and personal name of God, often rendered as "Yahweh." This name signifies God's eternal presence and covenant relationship with His people. By directing his cry to the LORD, the psalmist is appealing to the One who is both sovereign and intimately involved in the lives of His followers. This reflects a deep trust in God's character and His ability to intervene in human affairs.

I lift my voice
"Lifting one's voice" is a metaphorical expression indicating the act of prayer or supplication. The Hebrew root "נָשָׂא" (nasa) means "to lift, carry, or bear." In this context, it suggests an intentional act of raising one's voice to God, symbolizing the elevation of one's concerns and burdens to the divine realm. This phrase underscores the psalmist's active engagement in seeking God's help, demonstrating a reliance on divine intervention rather than human solutions.

to the LORD for mercy
The plea "to the LORD for mercy" highlights the psalmist's request for God's compassion and grace. The Hebrew word for "mercy" is "חֵן" (chen), which can also be translated as "favor" or "grace." This appeal for mercy acknowledges human frailty and the need for divine kindness and forgiveness. In the biblical context, God's mercy is a recurring theme, reflecting His loving and forgiving nature. The psalmist's request for mercy is a humble admission of dependence on God's benevolence and a recognition of His power to deliver and restore.

I pour out my complaint before Him
The phrase "I pour out my complaint before Him" reflects a deeply personal and intimate act of communication with God. The Hebrew word for "pour out" is "שָׁפַךְ" (shaphak), which conveys the idea of spilling or shedding, often used in the context of pouring out one's heart or emotions. This suggests a complete and unreserved expression of one's innermost feelings. The word "complaint" in Hebrew is "שִׂיחַ" (siach), which can mean meditation, musing, or lament. It indicates a thoughtful and earnest expression of distress or grievance. Historically, this reflects the practice of lamentation found throughout the Psalms, where the psalmist openly shares his struggles and sorrows with God, trusting in His ability to hear and respond. This act of pouring out one's complaint is not just a release of emotions but an act of faith, acknowledging God's sovereignty and willingness to listen.

before Him
The phrase "before Him" emphasizes the presence of God as the audience of the psalmist's lament. The Hebrew preposition "לְפָנָיו" (lefanav) means "before" or "in the presence of," indicating a direct and personal encounter with God. This highlights the accessibility of God to His people, affirming that He is not distant or detached but intimately involved in the lives of those who seek Him. In the historical context of the Psalms, this reflects the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where God is seen as a personal deity who is approachable and responsive to the cries of His people. Theologically, it underscores the belief in God's omnipresence and His readiness to engage with the concerns of His followers.

I declare to Him my trouble
The phrase "I declare to Him my trouble" continues the theme of open communication with God. The Hebrew word for "declare" is "נָגַד" (nagad), which means to make known, announce, or report. This suggests a deliberate and conscious act of sharing one's difficulties with God. The word "trouble" in Hebrew is "צָרָה" (tsarah), which denotes distress, adversity, or affliction. This reflects the psalmist's acknowledgment of his own limitations and his reliance on God for deliverance. In the broader scriptural context, this act of declaration is an expression of trust in God's power to intervene and provide relief. It is a reminder of the importance of bringing our burdens to God, confident in His ability to understand and address our needs. This verse, therefore, serves as an encouragement to believers to maintain an open and honest dialogue with God, trusting in His compassion and faithfulness.

When my spirit grows faint within me
This phrase captures a moment of deep personal weakness and vulnerability. The Hebrew word for "spirit" here is "ruach," which can mean breath, wind, or spirit, indicating the very essence of life. The psalmist, David, is expressing a profound sense of exhaustion and depletion, both physically and spiritually. Historically, David often found himself in dire situations, such as when he was fleeing from King Saul. This context of being pursued and in danger adds depth to his feeling of faintness. In a broader spiritual sense, this phrase resonates with believers who feel overwhelmed by life's challenges, reminding them that even the strongest can feel weak and in need of divine support.

it is You who know my way
The emphasis here is on God's omniscience and intimate knowledge of our paths. The Hebrew word for "know" is "yada," which implies a deep, personal understanding. This is not a distant or abstract awareness but a close, caring involvement in the psalmist's life. In the historical context of David's life, this assurance that God knows his way provides comfort amidst uncertainty and danger. For contemporary believers, this phrase reassures them that God is aware of their struggles and journeys, offering guidance and support even when the path seems unclear.

Along the path I travel
The "path" symbolizes the journey of life, with its various trials and tribulations. The Hebrew word "orach" refers to a way or course of life, suggesting that life is a journey with many twists and turns. David's life was marked by literal and metaphorical paths, from shepherding in the fields to leading a nation. This imagery of a path is common in Scripture, often representing the moral and spiritual journey of a believer. It encourages Christians to view their lives as a pilgrimage, with God as their guide.

they have hidden a snare for me
The "snare" is a metaphor for the traps and dangers set by enemies. The Hebrew word "pach" refers to a trap or a net, often used by hunters. In David's context, this could refer to the literal traps set by his enemies, like Saul, who sought to capture or kill him. Spiritually, it represents the temptations and challenges that believers face, which can lead them away from God's path. This phrase serves as a warning to be vigilant and rely on God's wisdom to navigate life's dangers. It also reassures believers that God is aware of these snares and is actively working to protect them.

Look to my right and see
In the Hebrew text, the word for "look" is "רְאֵה" (re'eh), which is a command to observe or perceive. The psalmist is urging God to notice his plight. The "right" side in ancient Near Eastern culture was considered a place of protection and support, often where a defender or advocate would stand. The psalmist feels abandoned, as there is no one at his right hand to defend him, highlighting his vulnerability and isolation.

no one attends to me
The phrase "no one attends" comes from the Hebrew "אֵין לִי מַכִּיר" (ein li makir), which conveys a deep sense of neglect and abandonment. The word "makir" implies recognition or acknowledgment. The psalmist feels invisible, as if no one acknowledges his existence or his distress. This reflects a profound loneliness and a cry for divine attention and intervention.

There is no refuge for me
"Refuge" in Hebrew is "מָנוֹס" (manos), meaning a place of escape or safety. The psalmist laments the absence of any sanctuary or safe haven. Historically, cities of refuge were places where one could flee for protection. The lack of refuge signifies a complete exposure to danger and a desperate need for God's protection.

no one cares for my soul
The Hebrew word for "cares" is "דֹּרֵשׁ" (doresh), which means to seek or inquire. The psalmist feels that no one is seeking after or concerned for his "נֶפֶשׁ" (nephesh), his soul or life essence. This phrase underscores a profound sense of neglect and the need for divine care and intervention. The psalmist's soul, representing his entire being, is in distress, and he longs for someone to care for his spiritual and physical well-being.

I cry to You, O LORD
The phrase begins with a personal and direct appeal to God, emphasizing the psalmist's deep sense of need and dependence. The Hebrew word for "cry" is "za'aq," which conveys a sense of urgency and desperation. This is not a casual request but a heartfelt plea. The use of "O LORD" refers to the covenant name of God, "Yahweh," highlighting a personal relationship and trust in God's faithfulness and sovereignty. Historically, this reflects the psalmist's understanding of God as a personal deity who is intimately involved in the lives of His people.

I say, 'You are my refuge,'
The declaration "You are my refuge" is a profound statement of faith and trust. The Hebrew word for "refuge" is "machaseh," which denotes a place of safety and protection. In ancient times, a refuge was a place where one could find shelter from danger or distress. This metaphor illustrates the psalmist's belief that God is a safe haven amidst life's trials. It reflects a deep-seated confidence in God's ability to protect and sustain, a theme that resonates throughout the Psalms.

my portion in the land of the living
The term "portion" in Hebrew is "cheleq," which can mean a share or inheritance. This suggests that the psalmist views God as his ultimate inheritance and source of sustenance. In the "land of the living," a phrase that signifies life on earth, the psalmist acknowledges that true fulfillment and security come from God alone. This reflects a theological understanding that transcends material possessions or earthly status, focusing instead on a spiritual inheritance that is eternal and unshakeable.

Attend to my cry
The psalmist begins with a heartfelt plea, urging God to pay attention to his desperate call for help. The Hebrew word for "cry" here is "rinnah," which can denote a shout of joy or a cry for help, depending on the context. In this verse, it is a cry of distress, reflecting the psalmist's deep need for divine intervention. This plea is a reminder of the intimate relationship between the believer and God, where one can openly express their deepest fears and needs, trusting that God is attentive and compassionate.

for I am brought very low
The phrase "brought very low" translates from the Hebrew "dalal," which means to be weak, thin, or impoverished. This expression captures the psalmist's state of utter vulnerability and helplessness. Historically, this could reflect a time of personal crisis or persecution, where the psalmist feels overwhelmed by circumstances beyond his control. It serves as a powerful reminder that in moments of profound weakness, believers are encouraged to turn to God, who is their strength and refuge.

Rescue me from my persecutors
Here, the psalmist calls for deliverance from those who pursue him with harmful intent. The term "persecutors" comes from the Hebrew "radaph," meaning to chase or pursue. This pursuit can be both physical and spiritual, representing any force that seeks to harm or oppress the believer. In a broader scriptural context, this plea for rescue is echoed throughout the Psalms, where God's deliverance is a recurring theme, affirming His role as a protector and savior of His people.

for they are too strong for me
Acknowledging the strength of his adversaries, the psalmist admits his own insufficiency in facing them alone. The phrase "too strong" underscores the overwhelming power of the opposition, which can be seen as a metaphor for any insurmountable challenge in life. This admission of weakness is not a sign of defeat but rather an act of faith, recognizing that true strength and victory come from reliance on God. It is a call to trust in God's omnipotence, knowing that He is greater than any earthly power or adversary.

Bring my soul out of prison
The phrase "Bring my soul out of prison" evokes a powerful image of liberation and deliverance. In the Hebrew text, the word for "prison" (מַסְגֵּר, masger) can refer to a literal confinement or a metaphorical state of distress and oppression. David, the psalmist, often found himself in dire situations, pursued by enemies and trapped in caves. This plea is not just for physical freedom but also for spiritual and emotional release. The soul's imprisonment can symbolize the bondage of sin, fear, or despair. Historically, David's life was marked by periods of hiding and fleeing, which adds depth to this cry for deliverance. Spiritually, it reflects the human condition yearning for the freedom that only God can provide.

that I may give thanks to Your name
The purpose of deliverance is not merely personal relief but to "give thanks to Your name." In Hebrew culture, a name is more than a label; it represents character and reputation. The name of God (YHWH) embodies His attributes of holiness, mercy, and power. David's desire to thank God underscores a heart of worship and gratitude. This phrase highlights the importance of acknowledging God's role in our lives and responding with praise. It is a reminder that our deliverance is ultimately for God's glory, and our gratitude is a testimony to His faithfulness.

The righteous will gather around me
"The righteous will gather around me" suggests a community of believers who witness and celebrate God's deliverance. The Hebrew word for "righteous" (צַדִּיקִים, tzaddikim) refers to those who live in accordance with God's laws and principles. This gathering is not just a social assembly but a spiritual fellowship. In the context of David's life, it reflects the support and encouragement he received from those who shared his faith and values. Historically, David attracted a band of loyal followers even during his times of distress. Spiritually, this gathering symbolizes the church, the body of Christ, where believers support one another and rejoice in God's works.

because of Your goodness to me
The phrase "because of Your goodness to me" acknowledges the source of deliverance and blessing. The Hebrew word for "goodness" (טוּב, tov) encompasses kindness, benevolence, and favor. David attributes his rescue and the resulting fellowship to God's inherent goodness. This recognition is central to a life of faith, where believers understand that every good gift comes from God. Historically, David experienced God's goodness in tangible ways, from victories in battle to personal protection. Spiritually, this goodness is a constant theme throughout Scripture, reminding us of God's unwavering love and grace toward His people. It is a call to trust in God's character and to live in gratitude for His continual blessings.