Berean Standard Bible · Public domain

Psalm 70

Israel’s prayers give language for praise, grief, repentance, and trust. Poetry uses imagery and parallel lines; each psalm should be read as a whole rather than as a detached promise.

Historical context & book outline

1For the choirmaster. Of David. To bring remembrance. Make haste, O God, to deliver me! Hurry, O LORD, to help me!

2May those who seek my life be ashamed and confounded; may those who wish me harm be repelled and humiliated.

3May those who say, “Aha, aha!” retreat because of their shame.

4May all who seek You rejoice and be glad in You; may those who love Your salvation always say, “Let God be magnified!”

5But I am poor and needy; hurry to me, O God. You are my help and my deliverer; O LORD, do not delay.

Read closely

  1. What repeated words, contrasts, or actions stand out in this chapter?
  2. How does this chapter fit the surrounding chapters and the book’s purpose?
  3. What did it communicate to its first hearers, before applying it to your life?