Psalms – Chapter 4

Old Testament10 Verses

1Unto the end, in verses. A psalm for David.

2When I called upon him, the God of my justice heard me: when I was in distress, thou hast enlarged me. Have mercy on me: and hear my prayer.

3O ye sons of men, how long will you be dull of heart? why do you love vanity, and seek after lying?

4Know ye also that the Lord hath made his holy one wonderful: the Lord will hear me when I shall cry unto him.

5Be ye angry, and sin not: the things you say in your hearts, be sorry for them upon your beds.

6Offer up the sacrifice of justice, and trust in the Lord: many say, Who sheweth us good things?

7The light of thy countenance, O Lord, is signed upon us: thou hast given gladness in my heart.

8By the fruit of their corn, their wine, and oil, they are multiplied:

9In peace in the self same I will sleep, and I will rest:

10For thou, O Lord, singularly hast settled me in hope.

Reflection for Today

Psalms Chapter 4 contributes to the biblical theme of prayer, praise, and the full range of human emotion before God, which Catholic teaching develops throughout the Catechism. the Psalms are the prayer book of the Church, prayed daily in the Liturgy of the Hours (CIC 2585-2589). The enduring truth that God invites us to bring all our emotions to Him calls us to response.

The Second Vatican Council's Dei Verbum teaches that "Sacred Scripture is the speech of God as it is put down in writing under the breath of the Holy Spirit" (DV 9). This chapter, like all Scripture, is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, reproof, correction, and training in righteousness.

Catholic tradition encourages daily engagement with Scripture, whether through the Liturgy of the Hours, personal reading, or group study. The Catechism teaches that "prayer should accompany the reading of Sacred Scripture, so that a dialogue takes place between God and man" (CIC 2653). May your reading of this chapter be a true encounter with the living God.

💡Catholic Reflection • Church Teachings

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