The LORD's anointed asks God for deliverance from attacking enemies.

Scripture References:
st. 1 = vv. 1-2
st. 2 = vv. 3-5
st. 3 = vv. 6-9
st. 4 = vv.l0-16
st. 5 = v. 17

Undefended by other helpers, the psalmist asks God to save him from pursuers who threaten his life (st. 1). He pleads his innocence of any wrongdoing that might warrant his violent death (st. 2) and appeals for a just judgment on his adversaries (st. 3). Confident of a righteous judgment, the psalmist describes God as a warrior and the wicked as those who give birth to evil (st. 4). The psalm concludes with a vow to thank and praise the LORD for his righteousness and deliverance (st. 5). Marie]. Post (PHH 5) wrote the versification in 1981 for the Psalter Hymnal.

Liturgical Use:
Passion Week; occasions of persecution or personal distress when an appeal to God's righteous intervention is in order, especially when the powers of this age threaten to overwhelm God's children. Also for use in solidarity with Christians in other places who are persecuted.

--Psalter Hymnal Handbook