Peace Amidst Discouragment (Psalm 4)

Psalm 4:1-8, 7-8

"You have given me greater joy than those who have abundant harvests of grain and new wine. In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, O Lord, will keep me safe" (Ps 4:7-8, NLT).

From Psalms we learn about the manifold emotional life of the psalmist, who is a believer and a person who has faith in God. So far, the following were considered:

1. The Happy (Ps 1:2): A happy person knows how to live and what to think about (Ps 1:1-2).
   
2. The Sovereign (Ps 2:6): The sovereign God rules despite the constant opposition from the rulers of the world (Ps 2:1-3).
3. The Confident (Ps 3:6): People who pray are confident and fearless, even when the odds are heavily stacked against them.
   

In Psalm 4, we consider The Peaceful. We learn how the psalmist experienced peace and joy in the midst of different types of discouraging people. Consider this psalm in two parts:

I. Discouragements From People

1. The Liars (2).
2. The Angry (4).
3. The Despairing (6a).
   

II. Encouragements From God (which are the fruits of prayer):

1. Relief (1).
2. Knowing God's faithfulness (3).
3. Trusting God (5).
4. Experiencing God's favor (6b).
5. Peace and joy (7-8).
   

References:

1. Motyer, J Alec. The Psalms. New Bible Commentary. Downers Grove, Illinois: Intervarsity Press, 1994.
2. Kidner, Derek. Psalms 1 - 72: An Introduction and Commentary. Tyndale Old Testament Commentaries. Downers Grove, Illinois: Intervarsity Press, 1973.
3. Talking to God and Men. Study guide for Psalm 4 by David Guzik.