Psalms 86:6

Give ear, O Lord, unto my prayer; and attend to the voice of my supplications.

Psalms 86:6 (KJV)

Context

Psalm 86 is a prayer of David, a humble appeal for God’s help in a time of trouble. In this verse, he asks God to listen closely to his prayer and to pay attention to his cries for mercy. This is a direct petition for God’s attentive hearing.

Meaning

The phrase “give ear” means to listen attentively. David repeats this plea from Psalm 86:1, showing his earnest and persistent desire to be heard. The word “supplications” refers to humble requests for mercy, revealing that David comes before God not with pride, but with dependence. By calling God “LORD” (Yahweh), he acknowledges God’s covenant authority and His power to respond. David’s prayer is offered in a spirit of humility, trusting in God’s goodness.

Biblical connections

This plea is grounded in the character of God described in the surrounding verses. Psalm 86:5 declares that the Lord is good, ready to forgive, and abounding in lovingkindness to all who call on Him. David’s request for attention is not based on his own worth, but on God’s merciful nature. The same Hebrew word for “give ear” appears in Psalm 5:1, where the psalmist also asks God to consider his groaning. This shows a consistent pattern of approaching God with earnest supplication.

Application

Believers can approach God with the same honesty and urgency. Prayer is not about using perfect words, but about coming with a sincere heart. David’s example teaches us to be persistent, humble, and confident that God hears. When we bring our needs to the Lord, we can trust that He is attentive and willing to act according to His mercy. We can bring our needs openly, knowing that God is omniscient and cares for His people.

Reflection

Consider how you pray. Do you come to God with the same earnestness as David? His prayer reminds us that God is not distant or indifferent. He bends His ear to the cries of His people. Let this verse encourage you to pour out your heart before the Lord, knowing that He listens and cares.