Psalms 55:2 - Commentary and Interpretation

Psalms 55:2 states: "Attend unto me, and hear me: I mourn in my complaint, and make a noise."

This verse expresses the psalmist's deep anguish and desire for God's attention amidst suffering. The plea for God to "attend" denotes an urgency, showcasing the need for divine intervention in distressful situations.

Meaning and Insights from Public Domain Commentaries

• Matthew Henry: Henry emphasizes the emotional intensity of the psalmist's lament. He views this plea as a call for God’s listening ear. Henry describes the complaint as not just noise but a heartfelt expression of sorrow, suggesting that the psalmist feels overwhelmed and seeks solace in prayer.
• Albert Barnes: Barnes interprets this verse as revealing the psalmist's desperate longing for God during times of trouble. He elucidates that mourning and complaining are part of a greater struggle, and turning to God is an act of faith, trusting that He will hear and respond to such sincere cries for help.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke offers an analysis on the nature of complaints made to God. He suggests that expressing sorrow is a vital step in seeking comfort. Clarke’s commentary highlights the psychological aspect of petitioning God in turmoil, emphasizing that such expressions are not merely verbal but stem from a deep internal plea for understanding and relief.

Cross-References for Psalms 55:2

This verse relates to various other scripture passages, providing a richer understanding through thematic connections. Below are notable bible verse cross-references:

• Psalms 34:17: "The righteous cry, and the LORD heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles." - Illustrates God's responsiveness to the cries of the distressed.
• Psalms 86:7: "In the day of my trouble I will call upon you: for you will answer me." - Reflects the assurance that God will answer in times of need.
• 1 Peter 5:7: "Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you." - Affirms the invitation to lay burdens before God, resonating with the psalmist's cry for help.
• Psalms 142:1-2: "I cried unto the LORD with my voice; with my voice unto the LORD did I make my supplication." - Emphasizes vocalizing anguish as a form of prayer.
• Lamentations 3:55-56: "I called upon thy name, O LORD, out of the low dungeon. Thou hast heard my voice: hide not thine ear at my breathing, at my cry." - Highlights the desperate appeal for God’s attention in despair.
• Psalms 40:1: "I waited patiently for the LORD; and he inclined unto me, and heard my cry." - Reinforces the expectation of God’s attentive ear to the believer's cries.
• Psalms 63:1: "O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee." - Describes seeking God earnestly during spiritual droughts.
• Psalms 88:13: "But unto thee have I cried, O LORD; and in the morning shall my prayer prevent thee." - Displays the continual communication with God even in prolonged suffering.
• Psalms 130:1: "Out of the depths have I cried unto thee, O LORD." - Connects the theme of crying out from a place of deep distress.
• Isaiah 30:19: "For the people shall dwell in Zion at Jerusalem: thou shalt weep no more: he will be very gracious unto thee at the voice of thy cry; when he shall hear it, he will answer thee." - A prophetic affirmation of God’s attentive kindness to His people’s cries.

Thematic Bible Verse Connections

Understanding the connections between Bible verses can greatly enhance the depth of one's study. Here are some thematic connections related to Psalms 55:2:

• The Implementation of Prayer: This verse teaches the necessity of turning to God in prayer, especially in times of grief and doubt.
• Divine Comfort in Distress: Similar passages underline the comforting nature of God's presence during hardships.
• The Reality of Suffering: Recognizing that mourning is a part of life and that lamenting before God is permissible and necessary.
• The Assurance of God's Response: Various scriptures affirm that God hears the cries of His people, providing hope in dark times.

Using Bible Cross-References Effectively

To build a robust understanding of biblical texts, employing cross-referencing Bible study methods is invaluable. Here are some tools and strategies:

• Bible Concordance: Utilize a good concordance to locate verses related to specific words or themes found in Psalms 55:2.
• Bible Cross-Reference Guide: This guide can assist in tracing thematic links between the Old and New Testament.
• Bible Reference Resources: Consider using resources that highlight inter-Biblical dialogues and the connections between different scriptures.
• Comprehensive Bible Cross-Reference Materials: These can help you map specific themes and ideas present throughout the biblical narrative.

Conclusion

The message of Psalms 55:2 resonates deeply within the context of human suffering and the robust nature of prayer. It encourages believers to vocalize their afflictions while reminding them of the certainty that God is always listening. As we explore the connections between this verse and other Scriptures, we come to understand the beautiful tapestry of God’s faithfulness and readiness to help those in need.