The heading of this Psalm is remarkably elaborate. The Hebrew words Mahalath Leannoth, which the ESV leaves untranslated, are not easy to explain. Perhaps Mahalath points to a flute melody, and Leannoth can be derived from a verb which means to humiliate. This makes us think of a teaching poem which encourages us to ponder, and which makes the reader think. That certainly fits with this Psalm, which is filled with complaints.

The poet’s name is Heman. We encounter this name more often in the Bible. In 1 Chronicles 6:33 there is a singer in the tabernacle service with this name. In 1 Kings 4:31 Heman is shown as a wise man. This alone can already serve as a reason for us to listen to him attentively. More so, as we have received this Psalm as part of the Scriptures through the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

Heman starts out with a declaration of faith: O Lord, God of my salvation. He holds on to that, despite the storms in his life. During the day, as well as at night he cries out to this God.

He continues to expect help from the Lord. In this, Heman is an example for us.