Psalms 69:14

Deliver me out of the mire, and let me not sink: let me be delivered from them that hate me, and out of the deep waters.

Psalms 69:14 (KJV)

Context

Psalm 69 is a lament by David during deep distress. He faced enemies who wanted to destroy him, and he cried out to God for mercy. In this verse, David uses two images: being stuck in mire and sinking in deep waters. Both show a person who cannot save himself and needs outside help. The plea is urgent, for without divine intervention, he will sink further into despair.

Meaning

The mire is slippery mud or clay that holds a person fast. To be stuck means helplessness and the fear of being swallowed up. The deep waters picture overwhelming danger, like waves that pull a person down. David asks God to deliver him from both the mud and the flood, and also from those who hate him. His enemies are real people who seek his ruin, and he names them plainly. The two images together show a situation that is both trapping and drowning, leaving no human way out.

Biblical connections

Earlier in the same psalm, David says he sinks in deep mire where there is no standing (Psalm 69:2). Later he pleads that the flood not overflow him and that the deep not swallow him (Psalm 69:15). These verses show a man who feels completely overwhelmed. The images are not just physical; they also describe emotional and spiritual despair. David knows that only God can pull him out. The preceding verse mentions praying at a time of favor and asking for an answer in the truth of God’s salvation (Psalm 69:13), grounding this plea in hope.

Application

When we face situations that feel like mud or flood, we can cry out to God just as David did. It is right to ask for deliverance from both our circumstances and the people who oppose us. We do not need to pretend we are strong. Instead, we can admit our helplessness and trust God to rescue us. His power is greater than any trap or wave. This pattern of crying out in trouble is a faithful response, not a lack of faith.

Reflection

David’s prayer teaches us that God is our true refuge in times of trouble. He is faithful and able to save. When we feel trapped, we can remember that God hears our cries and acts in His perfect time. Our part is to keep calling on Him, trusting that He will not let us sink forever. The vivid picture of rescue from mire and deep waters reminds us that God’s saving power reaches into our most overwhelming moments.