Psalms 140:6 (KJV): "I said unto the Lord, Thou art my God: hear the voice of my supplications, O Lord."

Overview: This verse expresses a personal relationship with God, emphasizing the psalmist's plea for divine attention to his prayers. The heartfelt acknowledgment of God as sovereign invites analysis of its spiritual implications.

Meaning and Interpretation

The psalmist's declaration and supplication reveal a deep sense of dependence on God's guidance and intervention. It reflects both the agony of distress and the comfort of divine companionship.

Insights from Commentaries

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry emphasizes the act of prayer as an acknowledgment of God’s lordship. The phrase "Thou art my God" signifies a covenant relationship, one that is both personal and communal. He points out that true supplication flows from a heart that recognizes God’s authority and love.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes notes that calling upon the Lord highlights trust and reliance on God amidst troubles. His observations suggest that the psalmist's introspective approach is fundamental to understanding God’s character and existence in times of trouble.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke elaborates on the effectiveness of supplication. He stresses that the psalmist appeals for God’s attention due to the urgency and sincerity of his prayer, advocating that prayer should proceed from faith, reinforcing the personal bond with God.

Thematic Connections

This verse provides a thematic link to the overall structure of the Psalms, where cries for help often transition into praises of God’s faithfulness. It also echoes sentiments found throughout Scripture, establishing a network of prayerful dependence on the Creator.

Relevant Cross-References

The following verses connect thematically and contextually with Psalms 140:6:

• Psalms 4:1: "Hear me when I call, O God of my righteousness..."
• Psalms 86:1: "Incline your ear, O Lord, and answer me..."
• Psalms 138:3: "On the day I called, you answered me..."
• Isaiah 65:24: "Before they call I will answer..."
• 1 John 5:14: "This is the confidence that we have in him...that if we ask anything..."
• James 5:16: "The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective."
• Jeremiah 33:3: "Call to me and I will answer you..."

Tools for Bible Cross-Referencing

Understanding Psalms 140:6 through a framework of cross-referencing can enrich one’s insight. Here are useful tools:

• Bible Concordance: Helps in finding verses by keywords.
• Bible Cross-Reference Guide: Offers organized thematic connections.
• Cross-Reference Bible Study: Method of linking scriptures by themes or ideas.
• How to Use Bible Cross-References: Techniques for identifying scriptural relationships.

Application in Spiritual Growth

This verse can serve as a reflective foundation for developing a profound prayer life. It invites believers to dialogue with God, acknowledging that each supplication bears significance in the light of divine relationship.

In Conclusion: Psalms 140:6 encapsulates essential truths about prayer, divine reliance, and God's listening ear, connecting to broader themes across the biblical text. By employing cross-referencing tools and understanding these connections, believers can deepen their practice of faith through rich scriptural engagement.

Final Reflections

As you reflect on Psalms 140:6, consider how it resonates with your personal experiences of prayer and reliance on God. Drawing from the insights provided by various commentaries, along with scriptural cross-references, can broaden your understanding and interpretation.