Psalm 55 is an individual lament only this time the danger comes from the betrayal of a close friend. This likely based upon the betrayal of David by his closest friend and counselor, Ahithophel in 2 Samuel 15:12, 16:15-23.
1-3 – Here is a plea for mercy. Danger comes from an enemy that bears a grudge against David in anger.
4-8 – David describes his desperation with words like anguish, terrors of death, fear, trembling, and horror. He wishes he could be a dove and fly away to the desert for safety.
9-11 – David now asks God to destroy the enemy that brings such fear upon him. Notice that the singer does not pray that the enemy will repent and relent as in other individual laments.
12-15 – David describes the betrayer, a man, my equal, my companion, my familiar friend, with whom he took counsel, and with whom he walked side-by-side together in house of God.
16-19 – Now a call to God for help and an expression of trust that God will hear David’s plea.
20-21 – Here is further description of the enemy, my companion, with whom we swore and oath together to protect each other.
22-23 – Confident declaration that the faithful who cast their burden on the LORD will be sustained by God and the righteous faithful person will be delivered from his enemies.
