The Christian Use of the Psalter

by A. R. Whitham

PSALM iii. Domine, quid multiplicati?

[Introit for Second Mass on Easter Day, in 1549 Prayer Book]

Christ's victory in His Resurrection over all His enemies; the blessedness of His Church.

PSALM iv. Cum invocarem

The deliverance of Christ from the contradiction of sinners. The Church's certainty of salvation in Christ, both in this life and in that which is to come, contrasted with the doubts and uncertain riches of the world.

[One of the Compline Psalms, in which the Christian commends himself to sleep in Christ.]

PSALM v. Verba mea auribus

A Psalm illustrating the life of prayer, public and private; witnessing to prayer and meditation as the source of inward strength and guidance, both in the life of Christ and in that of His people, in the face of this world's treachery and cruelty.

[One of the Psalms for the Dirge (whence it derives its name, ver. 8, "Dirige"), referring to God's leading the departed soul through the attacks of evil spirits to its rest in Him.]