Psalter Hymnal (Gray) ‎#142

142. Hear My Cry and Supplication

Text Information

• First Line: Hear my cry and supplication
• Title: Hear My Cry and Supplication
• Versifier: Clarence P. Walhout (1982)
• Meter: 87 87
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1987
• Scripture:
  Psalm 142
• Topic: Deliverance; Temptation & Trial; Afflictions
• Copyright: Text © 1987, CRC Publications
• ONE LICENSE: 68214

Tune Information

• Name: HERR, ICH HABE MISGEHANDELT
• Composer: Johann Crüger (1649)
• Meter: 87 87
• Key: e minor
• Source: Service Book and Hymnal, 1958, adapt.

Text Information:

A prayer for deliverance from powerful enemies.

Scripture References:
st. 1 = vv. 1-3a
st. 2 = vv. 3b-4
st. 3 = vv. 5-6
st. 4 = v. 7

Traditionally this prayer for deliverance from enemies is ascribed to David "when he was in the cave" (see also 57). Alone, imprisoned in a desperate situation caused by powerful enemies, the psalmist appeals to God to hear his cry and to lead him when he grows faint (st. 1). No one comes to his rescue (st. 2); the LORD is his only refuge (st. 3). Then the psalmist declares that he will praise the LORD for deliverance from this tribulation and that the righteous will join in the rejoicing (st. 4). Clarence P. Walhout (PHH 6) versified Psalm 142 in 1982 for the Psalter Hymnal.

Liturgical Use:
Whenever Christians find themselves or the church at the mercy of forces hostile to the kingdom of God.

--Psalter Hymnal Handbook

Tune Information:

Johann Crüger (PHH 42) composed HERR, ICH HABE MISGEHANDELT for a hymn text of the same name by Johann Franck and then published the two together in his Geistliche Kirchen-Melodien (1649), a collection of psalms and hymns set for four voices, two instruments, and continuo. The tune has appeared in many altered versions; the Psalter Hymnal version is shaped by a repetitive rhythmic pattern. The tune's four phrases may be sung in harmony.

--Psalter Hymnal Handbook