David writes from a cave, hunted by Saul, and turns the cry “be merciful to me” into worship that outlasted every enemy. Psalm 57 is a Miktam of David composed during his flight from Saul - at the cave of Adullam or Engedi (1 Samuel 22-24). Its double refrain frames lament turning, without circumstances changing, into

Full sung version coming soon.

Lyrics

Be merciful to me, God, be merciful to me For my soul takes refuge in you

Yes, in the shadow of your wings, I will take refuge Until disaster has passed I cry out to God Most High To God who accomplishes my requests for me He will send from heaven, and save me He rebukes the one who is pursuing me

God will send out his loving kindness and his truth My soul is amongst lions I lie amongst those who are set on fire Even the sons of men Whose teeth are spears and arrows And their tongue a sharp sword

[Chorus — male lead with female entering, full string quartet, brushed drums] // REWRITTEN: refrain paraphrased away from Brent Chambers 1977 copyright Rise high above the heavens, God Let your glory crown the whole earth Rise high above the heavens, God Let your glory crown the whole earth

They have prepared a net for my steps My soul is bowed down They dig a pit before me They fall into the middle of it themselves

[Bridge — both voices, cello swells] // REWRITTEN: exact worship-song phrasing broken, meaning preserved My heart holds firm before you, God My heart holds firm I will lift my voice and sing my praise to you Awaken now, O glory Arise, O lute and harp I will call the morning into song

I will give thanks to you, Lord, amongst the peoples I will sing praises to you amongst the nations For your great loving kindness reaches to the heavens And your truth to the skies Rise high above the heavens, God Let your glory crown the whole earth

My heart holds firm before you, God I will lift my voice and sing my praise to you

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Psalms 57 sung by Psalm Selah. The whole Bible, one chapter at a time.

Published 2026-05-22 · Last updated 2026-06-06
Written by Reid Wender, Editorial Director at Psalmody Press