Be angry, and do not sin; ponder in your own hearts on your beds, and be silent. Selah
Offer right sacrifices, and put your trust in the Lord.
Psalm 4:4-5
David continues to speak to the wicked. The realization that they are opposing the LORD should cause them to tremble* and cease from sin. David calls them to spend time alone in quiet reflection. There are two avenues of application here. First, you may be in David’s shoes, facing ungodly opposition. Here is a righteous response–not a seeking of revenge, but a confidence in the Lord, and an appeal to repent. Second, in honest heart searching, you may find that in some way you have put yourself opposite the Lord’s purposes. Here is the answer for you: (v.4) fear the Lord, turn from sin, consider your ways, and (v.5) make right your relationship with the Lord. Throw yourself upon Him and His forgiveness, which is through the once-for-all sacrifice of Christ.
*The Hebrew word here translated “Be angry” literally means “tremble.” Translations are divided on whether the trembling is in reference to anger or fear. I am inclined to understand it as fear, as this meaning seems to fit better with the message of the psalm.
His power can make you what you ought to be;
His blood can cleanse your heart and make you free;
His love can fill your soul and you will see
‘Twas best for Him to have His way with thee.
