What does Psalm 55:1 mean?

David pleads with the Lord not to ignore his prayer. He calls for mercy and rescue, pouring out his heart to God. Though David does not specifically describe the situation, he refers to enemies (Psalm 55:3), the threat of death (Psalm 55:4), and the betrayal of a close friend (Psalm 55:12–13). This resembles his experience with Ahithophel, once David's trusted counselor, who sided with David's son, Absalom, in a rebellion (2 Samuel 15—18).

Seeking the Lord during trying times is always a wise choice. God promises to hear and answer those who call upon Him. Jeremiah 33:3 communicates His invitation to call to Him and His promise to answer. Jesus instructed His disciples to pray persistently. He assured the disciples, "Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened" (Luke 11:9–10).

This song is directed to a "choirmaster," likely the person supervising music in the temple. It is also described as a maskiyl, likely meaning a reflective, contemplative song.