Feb 11 2009
Passages: Psalm 57, King James Bible
The King James Bible is the single most important book in the English language. Its impact on history, literature, and individual lives is unmatched. Its artistry is beautiful, as you can see in this psalm. I am especially moved as the determination to praise God rises above the striking depictions of evil men. “Be thou exalted, O God, above the heavens,” David cries. Psalm 57 is one of several passages that depict God as winged, sheltering His people under His feathers. I used this imagery extensively in Taerith.
Be merciful unto me, O God, be merciful unto me: for my soul trusteth in thee: yea, in the shadow of thy wings will I make my refuge, until these calamities be overpast.
I will cry unto God most high; unto God that performeth all things for me. He shall send from heaven, and save me from the reproach of him that would swallow me up. Selah. God shall send forth his mercy and his truth.
My soul is among lions: and I lie even among them that are set on fire, even the sons of men, whose teeth are spears and arrows, and their tongue a sharp sword.
Be thou exalted, O God, above the heavens; let thy glory be above all the earth.
They have prepared a net for my steps; my soul is bowed down: they have digged a pit for me, into the midst whereof they are fallen themselves. Selah.
My heart is fixed, O God, my heart is fixed: I will sing and give praise. Awake up, my glory; awake, psaltery and harp: I myself will awake early. I will praise thee, O Lord, among the people: I will sing unto thee among the nations. For thy mercy is great unto the heavens, and thy truth unto the clouds.
Be thou exalted, O God, above the heavens: let thy glory be above all the earth.
This passage spoke to me as only God’s Word can. I have been having a difficult time: most of my family is sick and I have been up at odd hours of the night caring for young ones. I’m tired from lack of sleep and generally worn out, so these verses were just what I needed. I’m truly thankful that God gives his children encouragement in some of their most helpless times. Thanks for posting this.