Psalm 143: A Cry for Mercy and Guidance

Psalm 143, attributed to David, is a prayer from a hunted soul who knows that no one can stand justified before God’s judgment and so pleads for an answer grounded in God’s faithfulness and righteousness. Surrounded by enemies and pressed into darkness and despair, the psalmist remembers God’s past works, meditates on what God has done, and reaches out with a thirsting soul. He asks for swift help before his spirit fails, for morning assurance of God’s lovingkindness, and for clear direction in the way he should walk because he trusts in the Lord. He seeks deliverance and refuge, asks to be taught to do God’s will, and to be led by God’s good Spirit into uprightness. Finally, he begs God to revive him, bring him out of trouble, and in mercy cut off those who afflict him, because he is God’s servant.

00:00 Psalm 143 Opening
00:06 Plea for Mercy
00:22 Crushed by Enemies
00:39 Remembering God
00:56 Urgent Cry for Help
01:16 Guidance and Deliverance
01:29 Revive and Vindicate
01:37 Final Appeal