Psalms – Chapter 61

Old Testament13 Verses

1Unto the end, for Idithun, a psalm of David.

2Shall not my soul be subject to God? for from him is my salvation.

3For he is my God and my saviour: he is my protector, I shall be moved no more.

4How long do you rush in upon a man? you all kill, as if you were thrusting down a leaning wall, and a tottering fence.

5But they have thought to cast away my price; I ran in thirst: they blessed with their mouth, but cursed with their heart.

6But be thou, O my soul, subject to God: for from him is my patience.

7For he is my God and my saviour: he is my helper, I shall not be moved.

8In God is my salvation and my glory: he is the God of my help, and my hope is in God.

9Trust in him, all ye congregation of people: pour out your hearts before him. God is our helper for ever.

10But vain are the sons of men, the sons of men are liars in the balances: that by vanity they may together deceive.

11Trust not in iniquity, and covet not robberies: if riches abound, set not your heart upon them.

12God hath spoken once, these two things have I heard, that power belongeth to God,

13And mercy to thee, O Lord; for thou wilt render to every man according to his works.

Reflection for Today

In Psalms Chapter 61, we encounter the continuing revelation of prayer, praise, and the full range of human emotion before God. The Catholic Church, guided by the Holy Spirit, has always treasured these sacred texts. the Psalms are the prayer book of the Church, prayed daily in the Liturgy of the Hours (CIC 2585-2589). The central message—God invites us to bring all our emotions to Him—speaks to believers in every age.

The Magisterium teaches that Scripture must be interpreted in light of the whole of revelation and the Church's living Tradition. The Catechism emphasizes that "the task of giving an authentic interpretation of the Word of God has been entrusted to the living teaching office of the Church alone" (CIC 85). This does not limit our engagement with Scripture but ensures its proper understanding.

As you reflect on this chapter, consider how its message applies to your life today. The Word of God is living and active, capable of transforming hearts and renewing minds. Through prayer and meditation, allow the Holy Spirit to speak to you through these ancient yet ever-new words.

💡Catholic Reflection • Church Teachings

Deepen your understanding with these related articles