Psalms 3
Psalm 3 is known as a psalm written by David when he was being pursued by his son Absalom. This chapter clearly shows the intense crisis and fear David faced, and—amid it all—his heart of trust in God. It consists of 8 verses and includes the flow of suffering and despair, prayer and trust, and the assurance of deliverance.
1verseA Psalm by David, when he fled from Absalom his son. LORD, how my adversaries have increased! Many are those who rise up against me.
2verseMany there are who say of my soul, “There is no help for him in God.” Selah.
3verseBut you, LORD, are a shield around me, my glory, and the one who lifts up my head.
4verseI cry to the LORD with my voice, and he answers me out of his holy hill. Selah.
5verseI laid myself down and slept. I awakened, for the LORD sustains me.
6verseI will not be afraid of tens of thousands of people who have set themselves against me on every side.
7verseArise, LORD! Save me, my God! For you have struck all of my enemies on the cheek bone. You have broken the teeth of the wicked.
8verseSalvation belongs to the LORD. May your blessing be on your people. Selah.
Structure and Flow
| Verses 1-2 | David begins by confessing the reality that many enemies surround him. The situation in which others say that he will not be saved by God makes his despair even greater. |
| Verses 3-4 | However, David confesses God as a shield who protects him, the source of his glory, and the One who lifts up his head. He brings before God a prayer of trust, crying out to Him. |
| Verses 5-6 | He confesses that God has protected him and caused him to rise, and he is confident that he will not be afraid of the many enemies. |
| Verses 7-8 | Finally, David concludes the psalm by asking God for deliverance and proclaiming that deliverance is from God. |
Overall Meaning
This psalm shows that although human beings experience fear and discouragement in the midst of extreme crisis, they can also enjoy peace and confidence by trusting in God. David focuses on God, the One who hears his prayers even in despair, and the One who grants salvation, and he entrusts his life to Him. This psalm highlights that the essence of faith does not depend on external circumstances, but on a relationship of trust in God.
Points to Ponder
- When faced with the fear in life, on whom am I relying?
- The circumstances can cause me to become discouraged, but can I trust in God’s answers and protection in the midst of them?
- What challenge does the attitude of faith David demonstrated give me for my posture today?
Try Applying It to Me
- Let’s learn and practice prayers that seek God’s help even in suffering.
- Let’s examine our lives so that we can trust God as our protector and lay down the fears of today.
- Let’s live each day, remembering that a life entrusted to God brings true peace and comfort.
