Definition: O turn unto me, and have mercy upon me; give thy strength unto thy servant, and save the son of thine handmaid.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down Psalm 86:16. It's a really powerful and emotional verse, and it speaks about a deep yearning for forgiveness and help. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse is asking God to look at us and help us. It’s expressing a profound feeling of desperation and needing something from him. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “O turn unto me…” : This isn't a command. It's a plea, like saying "Please look at me." It’s indicating that the person feels unworthy or neglected by God. “…and have mercy upon me…” : This is the heart of the verse. “Have mercy” means to show kindness, compassion, and forgiveness. The person is begging for God to show them mercy. “give thy strength unto thy servant…” : This is a metaphor – it's not literally about a person giving their strength. It’s about being helped . “Thy servant” refers to the individual who feels weak, lost, or burdened. “…and save the son of thine handmaid.” : This is the most difficult part to understand directly. "Son of thine handmaid" is a very poetic and symbolic phrase. It’s not meant literally. It's an expression of deep pain and suffering. It suggests that the person feels like they are being treated unfairly, perhaps exploited, neglected, or abandoned by someone in their life – someone who holds them accountable. Overall Meaning: The verse expresses a feeling of deep shame, weakness, and desperation. It’s a plea for God to forgive them, offer help, and restore them to a place of peace and safety. It's a moment of profound vulnerability and reliance on God. What does it tell us about the writer? Psalm 86:16 is a classic expression of repentance and sorrow. It’s a testament to a broken relationship with God, and a recognition that the person feels unworthy of his grace. It's a moment where someone acknowledges their own failings and desperately desires a change in direction. --- Do you want me to: Explain a specific part of the verse in more detail? Connect this verse to a larger context (like the story of David)? Discuss what it might mean for someone struggling with feelings of shame or inadequacy?