Psalm 28/Overview/Introduction
Author
David
Book
- Book 1 of the Psalter (Chapters 1–41)
Psalm 28: A Brief Summary
Psalm 28 presents a mix of fears, insistent arguments, confidence and joy. As David fears his own early death, he pleads with God for justice. In his plea for the wicked to get the punishment they deserve, he reminds himself of his own relationship with God. His distress over what the wicked have done fades away as he focuses on his hope, and joy over how YHWH has saved and blessed him.
The shift from fear to hope and joy enables David to also shift from focusing on himself to focusing on his people. He moves from being a person in trouble, who needs God to save his life, to being an anointed leader, who successfully represents his people to God and secures a blessing for them from YHWH. He asks that God hear him, and God answers with ongoing care and blessing for his people, showing he is a successful leader. David received what he sought.
"Don't be deaf to me" This title is a memorable phrase that helps remember the unique character and content of this psalm.
The phrase “Don’t be deaf to me” captures the opening desperation, as David contemplates what is at risk and worries God will not hear him. But it also sets up the reality that God is not deaf and never lets his people down.
Purpose The Purpose was the psalmist's probable intent or reason for writing this psalm.
To pray that YHWH would deal rightly by delivering David from imminent death and repaying the wicked for their deeds.
Content The Content is a concise summary of the whole psalm's content.
Hear my cry for help, lest I die! Bring justice! Blessed be YHWH for he has heard me! He is the one who repays the wicked for their deeds and who protects his people.
Message The Message is the main idea the psalmist probably wanted the audience to remember upon or after hearing the psalm.
YHWH repays the wicked (and the righteous) according to their dealings.