I cry out to God Most HighThis phrase reflects a deep sense of urgency and dependence on God. The title "God Most High" emphasizes God's supreme authority and sovereignty over all creation. This title is used throughout the Old Testament, notably in
Genesis 14:18-20, where Melchizedek blesses Abram, highlighting God's supremacy. The act of crying out suggests a personal and intimate relationship with God, where the psalmist seeks divine intervention and guidance. In the cultural context of ancient Israel, crying out to God was a common practice in times of distress, reflecting trust in God's power to deliver.
to God who fulfills His purpose for me
This part of the verse underscores the belief in God's providential care and the assurance that God has a specific plan for each individual. The concept of God fulfilling His purpose is echoed in other scriptures, such asJeremiah 29:11, where God declares His plans for welfare and hope. Theologically, this reflects the doctrine of divine sovereignty and purpose, suggesting that God orchestrates events in accordance with His will. This assurance can be seen as a type of Christ, who perfectly fulfilled God's purpose through His life, death, and resurrection, as seen in passages likeJohn 17:4, where Jesus speaks of completing the work given to Him by the Father.
Persons / Places / Events
1.
DavidThe author of this Psalm, who is traditionally believed to have written it while fleeing from King Saul. David's life was marked by moments of deep distress and reliance on God.
2.
God Most High (El Elyon)A title for God that emphasizes His supreme authority and sovereignty over all creation. It reflects the belief in God's ultimate power and control over the universe.
3.
Cave of AdullamWhile not mentioned directly in this verse, the context of
Psalm 57 is often associated with David's time hiding in the cave of Adullam, a place of refuge during his flight from Saul.
Teaching Points
God's SovereigntyRecognize that God is in control of all circumstances. Just as David trusted God to fulfill His purpose, we too can trust in God's sovereign plan for our lives.
Purpose and FulfillmentUnderstand that God has a specific purpose for each of us. Our role is to seek His will and trust that He will bring it to completion.
Prayer and DependenceLike David, we should cry out to God in times of trouble, relying on His strength and guidance rather than our own understanding.
Faith in AdversityEven in difficult situations, maintain faith that God is working for our good and His glory, using every circumstance to shape us according to His purpose.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1.What is the meaning of Psalm 57:2?
2.How does Psalm 57:2 encourage reliance on God's purpose for our lives?
3.What does "God who fulfills His purpose" reveal about God's sovereignty?
4.How can Psalm 57:2 deepen our trust during challenging times?
5.Connect Psalm 57:2 with Romans 8:28 on God's purpose and our good.
6.How can you apply Psalm 57:2 in daily decision-making and prayer?
7.How does Psalm 57:2 reflect God's sovereignty in fulfilling His purpose for individuals?
8.What historical context influenced the writing of Psalm 57:2?
9.How does Psalm 57:2 challenge modern views on destiny and free will?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Psalm 57?
11.In light of biblical accounts where the righteous do suffer (e.g., Job), does Psalm 91 contradict other Scriptures regarding God's protection?
12.What is the meaning of Michtam in the Psalms?
13.How can a 'divine council' (Psalm 82:1) fit with passages claiming there is only one God (Deuteronomy 6:4)?
14.How do we reconcile Psalm 91:7 with the countless believers throughout history who have suffered widespread destruction and calamities?What Does Psalm 57:2 Mean
I cry outDavid’s first action is vocal and personal—he cries out. The psalm was written while he hid in the cave from Saul (1 Samuel 24:1–3), so the desperation is real. Yet the cry is not aimless:
• It is immediate. When pressure rises, David’s instinct is prayer, echoing2 Chronicles 20:12, “We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on You.”
• It is honest.Psalm 142:2 shows him “pouring out” his complaint. God welcomes unfiltered words;Philippians 4:6 invites us to “present your requests to God.”
• It is expectant. David believes his cry will be heard (Psalm 34:17).
to God Most HighDavid names the One he addresses. “Most High” (ʽElyon) emphasizes absolute supremacy.
• Sovereign protection.Psalm 91:1 links “Most High” with a refuge, reminding us no cave or castle shields like God Himself (Proverbs 18:10).
• Supreme authority. Because God is over kings, enemies, and circumstances (Daniel 4:34–35), David’s situation—though dire—is never outside divine oversight.
• Personal relationship. Calling on the “Most High” does not distance God; rather, it magnifies His power to intervene (Isaiah 57:15).
to God who fulfills His purpose for meDavid rests in more than rescue; he trusts the completion of God’s plan.
• Assurance of completion. “The LORD will accomplish what concerns me” (Psalm 138:8). Paul echoes this inPhilippians 1:6, confident God finishes what He starts.
• Individual design. God’s purpose is not generic but tailor-made:Jeremiah 29:11 promises “plans to prosper you,” andEphesians 2:10 says we are “created in Christ Jesus for good works…prepared beforehand.”
• Unstoppable will. Even human opposition becomes the stage for divine intent (Genesis 50:20;Romans 8:28). Saul’s pursuit drives David toward the throne God promised.
• Invites surrender. Knowing God fulfills His purpose frees us to cooperate rather than scheme.Psalm 37:5: “Commit your way to the LORD…He will do it.”
summaryPsalm 57:2 shows a progression: genuine distress voiced, directed to the sovereign “Most High,” and anchored in the certainty that God completes His personal purpose for every believer. When we echo David’s cry, we find confidence that no threat can derail the plans of the One who rules over all and lovingly shapes our lives for His glory.
(2)
Peformeth all things for me.--Literally,
completes forme, which may be explained from the analogy of
Psalm 138:8. But as the LXX. and Vulg. have "my benefactor" (reading
gom?lfor
gom?r) we may adopt that emendation.
Verse 2. -
I will cry unto God most High. In the original, "unto
Elohim '
elyon" - an expression which only occurs here and in
Psalm 78:56.
El elyon, however, occurs in
Psalm 78:45; as in
Genesis 14:18, 19, 22, and
Jehovah '
elyon in Psalm 7:18
[Psalm 7:17
].
Unto God that performeth all things for me (comp.
Psalm 138:8). God "accomplishes" for his saints whatever is good for them.
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew
I cry outאֶ֭קְרָא(’eq·rā)Verb - Qal - Imperfect - first person common singular
Strong's 7121:To call, proclaim, readto Godלֵֽאלֹהִ֣ים(lê·lō·hîm)Preposition-l | Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 430:gods -- the supreme God, magistrates, a superlativeMost High,עֶלְי֑וֹן(‘el·yō·wn)Adjective - masculine singular
Strong's 5945:An elevation, lofty, as title, the Supremeto Godלָ֝אֵ֗ל(lā·’êl)Preposition-l | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 410:Strength -- as adjective, mighty, the Almightywho fulfillsגֹּמֵ֥ר(gō·mêr)Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine singular
Strong's 1584:To end, come to an end, completeHis purpose for me.עָלָֽי׃(‘ā·lāy)Preposition | first person common singular
Strong's 5921:Above, over, upon, against
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OT Poetry: Psalm 57:2 I cry out to God Most High (Psalm Ps Psa.)