God alone reigns as an unfailing refuge and the believer’s ultimate portion.
I cried out to You, O LORD; I said, “You are my refuge, My portion in the land of the living.” (v.5) appears within a psalm attributed to David, who served as the second king of Israel between 1010-970 BC. Historically, David was often pursued by enemies (1 Samuel 19-24), and much of his writing reflects the experience of fleeing for his life. Psalm 142 is connected to a time when David hid in a cave, possibly near the wilderness of En-gedi, a rugged area bordering the Dead Sea’s western shore known for its steep cliffs and remote hiding places. While David’s location was barren and stressful, his cry to the LORD underscores his trust in the Almighty’s protection and providential care, even when Earthly sanctuary was scarce.
When David proclaims “You are my refuge” (v.5), he confesses reliance on God’s covering grace rather than any physical fortress or human strength. The phrase “My portion in the land of the living” (v.5) signifies that David sees God as his rightful inheritance and abundant supply, surpassing any temporary security the world might offer. In the broader sense of Scripture, this echoes the idea that true safety is found only in divine presence (Psalm 91:1-2), and believers throughout generations have looked to God for refuge and support in their darkest hours. David’s words also anticipate how Jesus invites the weary to find their rest in Him (Matthew 11:28), suggesting that ultimate solace is always tied to the character of God.
Furthermore, David’s direct address to the LORD, “I cried out to You, O LORD” (v.5), displays a personal relationship grounded in faith. Despite loneliness, fear, or persecution, David does not resign himself to despair but calls upon the only One he trusts to rescue him. This psalm teaches believers to look beyond the tangible circumstances and place hope in God as the enduring “portion.” Just as David drew comfort from knowing he belonged to the LORD, present-day faith communities can glean confidence that God remains a firm refuge amid turmoil or adversity.
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Psalms 142:5 meaning
I cried out to You, O LORD; I said, “You are my refuge, My portion in the land of the living.” (v.5) appears within a psalm attributed to David, who served as the second king of Israel between 1010-970 BC. Historically, David was often pursued by enemies (1 Samuel 19-24), and much of his writing reflects the experience of fleeing for his life. Psalm 142 is connected to a time when David hid in a cave, possibly near the wilderness of En-gedi, a rugged area bordering the Dead Sea’s western shore known for its steep cliffs and remote hiding places. While David’s location was barren and stressful, his cry to the LORD underscores his trust in the Almighty’s protection and providential care, even when Earthly sanctuary was scarce.
When David proclaims “You are my refuge” (v.5), he confesses reliance on God’s covering grace rather than any physical fortress or human strength. The phrase “My portion in the land of the living” (v.5) signifies that David sees God as his rightful inheritance and abundant supply, surpassing any temporary security the world might offer. In the broader sense of Scripture, this echoes the idea that true safety is found only in divine presence (Psalm 91:1-2), and believers throughout generations have looked to God for refuge and support in their darkest hours. David’s words also anticipate how Jesus invites the weary to find their rest in Him (Matthew 11:28), suggesting that ultimate solace is always tied to the character of God.
Furthermore, David’s direct address to the LORD, “I cried out to You, O LORD” (v.5), displays a personal relationship grounded in faith. Despite loneliness, fear, or persecution, David does not resign himself to despair but calls upon the only One he trusts to rescue him. This psalm teaches believers to look beyond the tangible circumstances and place hope in God as the enduring “portion.” Just as David drew comfort from knowing he belonged to the LORD, present-day faith communities can glean confidence that God remains a firm refuge amid turmoil or adversity.