Psalm 143
Theme
My Soul Thirsts for You
Outline
1-2, The Lord’s Servant Knows the Lord’s Character 3-4, The One at Enmity and David’s Fainting Spirit 5-6, David Remembers and Meditates Like a Weary Land 7-8, David Calls Yahweh to Answer, Not Hide His Face 9-10, The Ones at Enmity and Yahweh’s Good Spirit 11-12, The Lord’s Servant Knows the Lord’s Character
Key Verse
(143:8) Cause me to hear Your lovingkindness in the morning, for in You do I trust; cause me to know the way in which I should walk, for I lift up my soul to You. (143:1) Hear my prayer, O LORD, give ear to my supplications! In Your faithfulness answer me, and in Your righteousness.
Notes
Psalm 143 is structured chiastically, with David's prayer reflecting on God's character and his own servitude. The psalm begins and ends with references to Yahweh's faithfulness, righteousness, and lovingkindness. David addresses his enemies and expresses his fainting spirit, yearning for Yahweh. The central units focus on David's remembrance and meditation, culminating in a plea for Yahweh to answer him. The chiastic structure emphasizes the relationship between David and God throughout the psalm.