Psalm 55:16-19
This page isn't yet indexed by search engines.
The verse isn't just about calling on God in general; it's a deliberate choice to turn away from other potential "salvation" and instead engage with the person of God, the covenant Lord, even when surrounded by overwhelming opposition and betrayal. This personal address, "I will call upon God," highlights the Psalmist's determined reliance on his relationship with God, not just a generic deity, as the ultimate source of his rescue.
But I call to God, and the LORD will save me. Evening and morning and at noon I utter my complaint and moan, and he hears my voice. He redeems my soul in safety from the battle that I wage, for many are arrayed against me. God will give ear and humble them, he who is enthroned from of old, Selah because they do not change and do not fear God.
English Standard Version (ESV)
The psalmist is in deep distress, betrayed by friends and surrounded by enemies who plot his downfall. Amidst this turmoil, he contrasts his own faithful reliance on God with the wicked actions of his adversaries. He resolves to continue praying, fully trusting that God, his covenant Lord, will hear him and ultimately deliver him from his perilous situation.
When life feels overwhelming, and enemies surround you, where do you turn? David declares his unwavering strategy, a choice that sets him apart.
In Psalms 55:16, David makes a profound personal commitment: "As for me, I will call upon God." This isn't just a statement of intent; it's a declaration of his chosen refuge.
The Contrast
While others might resort to violence, manipulation, or despair, David's response is to actively turn to God. This isn't a passive hope, but a deliberate act of prayer and reliance.
The Foundation
This vow is rooted in David's deep understanding of God's character – His power to save and His faithfulness to those who call on Him. He isn't praying into the void; he's praying to the One who has the power to deliver.
It's one thing to pray, but another to know you will be saved. David’s declaration is bold, a testament to a faith that sees beyond the present struggle.
David doesn't just say he will call on God; he adds with absolute certainty, "and the LORD will save me." This isn't wishful thinking; it's profound trust.
The Certainty of Deliverance
This confidence stems from recognizing God's faithfulness and power. Even when surrounded by enemies and facing immense pressure, David believes God's promise of salvation is sure. The commentators highlight this as a deep-seated faith, not dependent on outward circumstances but on the unchanging nature of God.
Ask a follow-up
God's Name Matters
Notice the shift in the verse: David calls on "God" (El), the mighty creator, but is assured of salvation by "the LORD" (Yahweh), the covenant-keeping God. This highlights that salvation comes from the God who has a personal relationship with His people and is bound by His promises.
Understand the original words
Elohim · Hebrew Noun
A general title for the one true God, denoting His supreme power, authority, and role as Creator and Judge. It reflects His relationship with humanity as the sovereign object of worship and trust.
Yahweh · Hebrew Noun
The personal, covenantal name of God revealed to Israel, signifying His self-existence, faithfulness, and eternal nature. He is the God who enters into relationship with His people to deliver and sustain them.
yasha' · Hebrew Verb
To rescue, deliver, or bring into a state of salvation, whether from physical danger, oppression, or spiritual ruin. It implies a divine intervention that provides safety or restoration.
siach · Hebrew Noun
An expression of deep distress, grief, or pain brought before God. In Scripture, it represents the honest pouring out of one's heart in prayer during times of trouble, trusting in God's presence.
padah · Hebrew Verb
To pay the price to set someone or something free, implying a transfer of ownership or rescue from slavery, judgment, or death. It often involves the payment of a ransom or the exercise of power on behalf of another.
nephesh · Hebrew Noun
The inner life, breath, or personality of a person, representing the whole self. It is the seat of human emotion, desire, and spiritual life, which is subject to God's care and judgment.
yashab · Hebrew Verb
The sovereign, rightful place of rule and authority, typically referring to God's eternal majesty and heavenly kingship over all creation. It emphasizes His enduring, unchanging, and absolute power.
yare' · Hebrew Verb
A reverent awe and deep respect for God's holiness and power. It involves recognizing God as the ultimate authority, leading to obedience, submission, and avoidance of evil.
This psalm was likely written during a time of intense personal crisis for David, possibly the rebellion of his own son Absalom. The verse highlights his unwavering trust in God's deliverance even amidst betrayal and exile, a powerful reminder that our prayers and confidence are always heard, no matter the circumstances.
c. 1010 BC— this verse
Absalom's Rebellion
Absalom, David's son, leads a rebellion, forcing David to flee Jerusalem. This period was marked by intense betrayal and hardship for David.
c. 1010 BC
David's Flight from Jerusalem
David and his loyal followers are forced to abandon the capital city, experiencing deep personal loss and the threat of civil war.
c. 1010 BC
Abolishment of Sacrifices
During David's exile, the regular sacrificial system at the Temple in Jerusalem is disrupted, adding to the spiritual turmoil.
c. 1010 BC
David's Exile and Return
After a period of distress and conflict, David eventually defeats Absalom's forces and returns to reclaim his throne.
David, in a moment of extreme distress when his own men were threatening to stone him, found strength and reassurance by 'strengthening himself in the LORD his God.' This echoes the psalmist's resolve to call upon God when facing overwhelming odds.
2 Chronicles 20:3-4King Jehoshaphat, facing a massive invading army, 'set his face to seek the LORD' and proclaimed a fast. This demonstrates the same principle of turning to God in prayer and worship when confronted by seemingly insurmountable challenges.
Romans 8:31This New Testament passage directly mirrors the confidence expressed in Psalm 55:16, asking 'If God is for us, who can be against us?' It reinforces the idea that God's presence and favor are the ultimate guarantee of victory and salvation.
1 Peter 5:7The Apostle Peter urges believers to 'cast all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.' This captures the essence of Psalm 55:16, where the psalmist entrusts his troubles to God, knowing He will provide deliverance.
gillPsalms 55:16: "As for me, I will call upon God; and the LORD shall save me."
As for me, I will call upon God,.... Not upon a creature, on idols and images, on angels or saints departed; but upon God, in his time of trouble, for salvation and deliverance from enemies; who is able to save. This is to be understood of calling upon God in prayer; as Psalm 55:17 explains it, and the Targum here renders it; though sometimes invocation of the name of God takes in the whole of divine worship; and the L…
poolePsalms 55:16: "As for me, I will call upon God; and the LORD shall save me."
Whilst he destroys them. As they and I differ in the courses of our lives, so shall we in our ends.
The verse isn't just about calling on God in general; it's a deliberate choice to turn away from other potential "salvation" and instead engage with the person of God, the covenant Lord, even when surrounded by overwhelming opposition and betrayal. This personal address, "I will call upon God," highlights the Psalmist's determined reliance on his relationship with God, not just a generic deity, as the ultimate source of his rescue.
The psalmist is in deep distress, betrayed by friends and surrounded by enemies who plot his downfall. Amidst this turmoil, he contrasts his own faithful reliance on God with the wicked actions of his adversaries. He resolves to continue praying, fully trusting that God, his covenant Lord, will hear him and ultimately deliver him from his perilous situation.
The psalmist is in deep distress, betrayed by friends and surrounded by enemies who plot his downfall. Amidst this turmoil, he contrasts his own faithful reliance on God with the wicked actions of his adversaries. He resolves to continue praying, fully trusting that God, his covenant Lord, will hear him and ultimately deliver him from his perilous situation.
"But I call to God, and the LORD will save me. Evening and morning and at noon I utter my complaint and moan, and he hears my voice. He redeems my soul in safety from the battle that I wage, for many…" — The verse isn't just about calling on God in general; it's a deliberate choice to turn away from other potential "salvation" and instead engage with the person of God, the covenant Lord, even whe…
Get the original Greek and Hebrew, verse-by-verse context, and related passages inside the app.
Last reviewed October 2026
