Psalms 142 — Tyndale Study Notes
Ps.138.1-145.21
In this final collection of psalms of David, praise and wisdom psalms (Pss 138–139, 145) form a frame around five poems of lament (Pss 140–144).
Ps.142.1-7
The psalmist faces severe persecution, so he cries to the Lord, and the Lord will rescue him.
Ps.142.1-7
regarding his experience in the cave: Cp. Ps 57:title.
Ps.142.1-3
Though overwhelmed by his persecutors (142:6), the psalmist looks to the Lord for wisdom.
Ps.142.3-4
The psalmist reaches a point of despair (see 77:3), and the Lord cares for him in his distress. The psalmist commits himself to the Lord’s wisdom (see Ps 139) but laments his entrapment by the wicked (5:9-10; 140:5; 141:9; 142:3).
Ps.142.5
Though he is alone, the psalmist’s trust remains in the Lord, who is his life (see 9:9; 16:5; 27:13).
Ps.142.6-7
Though overwhelmed by loneliness and trouble, the psalmist focuses on the Lord’s goodness and protection. He knows that the Lord alone is his Redeemer, so he offers his praise.
Ps.142.7
His experience of confinement and duress is like being in prison (see 107:10).