Psalm 4/Overview/Introduction
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Author
- David
Book
- Book 1 of the Psalter (Chapters 1–41)
Psalm 4: A Brief Summary
- Psalm 4 is a celebration of God granting relief from drought and providing abundant crops for Israel. When YHWH provides for his people, it showcases his character and the blessing that he equally offers to every nation who will worship him. Psalm 4 moves from celebration into invitation to all humanity, to experience the same blessing Israel has experienced.
"The Light of Your Face" This title is a memorable phrase that helps remember the unique character and content of this psalm.
- A helpful way to remember Psalm 4 is with the words used to express God’s blessing: “The Light of Your Face.” When a people experienced God’s blessing, they spoke of it as light beaming down in approval. Israel knew the light of God’s face, and this psalm invites the rest of the nations to come to know it, too.
Purpose The Purpose was the psalmist's probable intent or reason for writing this psalm.
- To celebrate YHWH's blessing on his people, inviting the nations to experience the same blessing.
Content The Content is a concise summary of the whole psalm's content.
- Trust in YHWH, who alone gives true peace and security! No other god can satisfy.
Message The Message is the main idea the psalmist probably wanted the audience to remember upon or after hearing the psalm.
- YHWH's blessing is on those who trust in him.