What does Psalm 4:6 mean?

Apparently, many of David's followers were growing weary of living in the wilderness with Absalom's forces in hot pursuit (2 Samuel 15:13–14; Psalm 3:1). They wondered if they would ever see any good come from their difficult situation.

Discouragement often strikes beleaguered Christians. Trials and persecution can begin to take their toll on our faith. We know Romans 8:28 promises that everything works for together for good for those who love God, but we long to see the evidence that it does. Nevertheless, the Lord instructed that we "ought always to pray and not lose heart" (Luke 18:1). Also, Galatians 6:9 counsels us to persevere in doing good, promising that "in due season we will reap, if we do not give up."

Knowing many of his followers were becoming discouraged, David prayed for the Lord to shine the light of His face upon him and his men. In other words, he asked the Lord to place His favor upon them. The best way to combat discouragement is to pray for encouragement from God!