Psalms 61
What Happens in This Chapter
In this psalm, a song to God, the writer calls out to God from far away when his heart feels weak. He asks God to keep him safe, like a high rock or a strong tower. He says he wants to stay close to God always. He also prays that God will give the king a long life and keep him safe, and he promises to sing to God every day.
Plain reading written for kids. Short sentences, everyday words, one idea at a time.
Hear my cry, O God; attend unto my prayer.
1God, please listen to me when I call out. Please pay attention to my prayer.
2From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I.
2I call to you from far away, when my heart feels weak and tired. Take me to the rock that is higher than I can climb.
3For thou hast been a shelter for me, and a strong tower from the enemy.
3You have kept me safe. You have been like a strong tower that keeps my enemy out.
4I will abide in thy tabernacle for ever: I will trust in the covert of thy wings. Selah.
4I want to stay in your tent forever. I will hide safely under your wings, the way a bird covers its babies. Selah.
"Selah" is a music word found in the Psalms. Nobody today knows for sure what it meant. It may have been a pause or a signal to the singers.
5For thou, O God, hast heard my vows: thou hast given me the heritage of those that fear thy name.
5God, you have heard the promises I made to you. You have given me what belongs to people who honor your name.
6Thou wilt prolong the king’s life: and his years as many generations.
6Please give the king many more days to live. Let his years go on and on.
7He shall abide before God for ever: O prepare mercy and truth, which may preserve him.
7Let him stay with God always. Send your love and your faithfulness to keep him safe.
8So will I sing praise unto thy name for ever, that I may daily perform my vows.
8Then I will sing to your name forever. Every day I will keep the promises I made.
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