Praying at bedtime, a Reflection on Psalm 4

Psalm 4 is a traditional choice for night prayer. The next time you are kept awake from anxiety, try praying it yourself.

This psalm begins with a direct address to God:
Imperative--what the psalmist wants God to do.

Answer me when I call, O God of my right!

Reminder--what God has already done.

You gave me room when I was in distress.

Imperative--an echo of what the psalmist wants.

Be gracious to me, and hear my prayer.

Then the psalm addresses adversaries
Accusation--Read this portion as God speaking to us:

How long, you people, shall my honor suffer shame? How long will you love vain words, and seek after lies?

Repentance

But know that the Lord has set apart the faithful for himself.

Reminder

the Lord hears when I call to him.

Imperative

When you are disturbed, do not sin; ponder it on your beds, and be silent. Offer right sacrifices,and put your trust in the Lord.

Then the psalm returns to an address to God:

There are many who say, "O that we might see some good! Let the light of your face shine on us, O Lord!