Albert Barnes Commentary Psalms 61:1

"Hear my cry, O God; Attend unto my prayer." — Psalms 61:1 (ASV)

Hear my cry, O God — See the notes at (Psalms 5:2). The word rendered cry in this place sometimes denotes a joyful shout—a shout of triumph; but the connection makes it certain that it here refers to the voice of prayer. It is implied that it was audible prayer, or that the psalmist gave utterance to his desires in words. It is language such as would be produced by deep distress, when a sad and burdened heart gives vent to its feelings in a loud cry for mercy.

Attend to my prayer — Give ear; incline the ear to me (Psalms 5:1; Psalms 17:1, 6; Psalms 39:12; Psalms 71:2).