Psalm 142 was said to have been written by David when he was in the cave in the Judean wilderness on the run from King Saul, as described in 1 Samuel 24. David was in a desperate and dangerous situation, and feeling alone:
Look to the right and see; for there is no one who regards me; there is no escape for me; no one cares for my soul (v. 4).
There was no one “to his right” – in the place of protection. Even more demoralizing to David, there was no person who “cares for his soul.” This was why David wisely turned to the LORD.
I cry aloud with my voice to the LORD (v. 1).
I pour out my complaint before Him; I declare my trouble before Him (v. 2).
When my spirit was overwhelmed within me, Thou didst know my path (v. 3).
I cried out to Thee, O LORD; I said, “Thou art my refuge, my portion in the land of the living” (v. 5).
This is not the first psalm where David models the following 3-fold response when we are under attack and feeling alone and defenseless:
- Cry out to the LORD to rescue our soul.
- Confess to the LORD that the situation is too big for us. Deliver me from my persecutors, for they are too strong for me (v. 6).
- Purpose to praise the LORD for whatever He will do. Bring my soul out of prison, so that I may give thanks to Thy name (v. 7).
This psalm also challenges me to be on the lookout for those who are alone and desperate, and realize that their greatest need is someone who will care for their soul.