What does Psalm 64:1 mean?

David asks God to hear the words that describe his suffering. This is described as a "complaint," which in modern English often implies protesting against the person to whom one speaks. However, David is not criticizing God. The word translated "complaint" can also refer to an expression of unhappiness. David is bothered by the actions of his enemies (Psalm 64:2), not something which he feels God ought to have done differently. At the same time, David asks for safety from his enemies, whose attacks cause fear. The "dread" mentioned here can refer either to David's anxiety or to the hazards which his enemies provide.

Much of David's life was spent under threats of various kinds. Especially pressing were those times when other men sought to kill him. That included enemy soldiers (1 Samuel 17:45), a failed king (1 Samuel 18:10–11; 19:1–2), and even his own family members (2 Samuel 15:13–14). Because God blessed David nearly from the beginning of his life (1 Samuel 16:13), his enemies often resorted to slander and lies as part of their opposition (Psalm 31:13; 63:11). These adversaries also dealt in conspiracies and secret plans (1 Samuel 23:9; Psalm 38:12).

It is always good to offer God a prayer of praise and thanksgiving, yet believers may also approach God with their deepest concerns and fears. Hebrews 4:16 encourages believers to come to God with confidence. Philippians 4:6 tells believers not to be worried about anything, but to let their requests be known to God by praying and pleading with thanksgiving. Peter is a good example of urgently asking for the Lord's help. When he was at risk of drowning in the Sea of Galilee, he called out to Jesus with three desperate words: "Lord, save me" (Matthew 14:30).