Psalm 3 is a heartfelt prayer of David during a time of great personal crisis. As he flees from his son Absalom, David finds solace and strength in God. This Psalm reflects his trust in the Lord despite overwhelming circumstances. Welcome to the Psalm Club!

Text of Psalm 3

1 Lord, how many are my foes! How many rise up against me!
2 Many are saying of me, “God will not deliver him.”
3 But you, Lord, are a shield around me, my glory, the One who lifts my head high.
4 I call out to the Lord, and he answers me from his holy mountain.
5 I lie down and sleep; I wake again, because the Lord sustains me.
6 I will not fear though tens of thousands assail me on every side.
7 Arise, Lord! Deliver me, my God! Strike all my enemies on the jaw; break the teeth of the wicked.
8 From the Lord comes deliverance. May your blessing be on your people.

Commentary

Verses 1-2: The Crisis

David begins by describing his dire situation. Surrounded by many enemies, he feels the weight of their opposition. His adversaries doubt God’s deliverance, intensifying his distress.

Verse 3: The Shield of Protection

Despite the challenges, David declares his confidence in the Lord. He sees God as a shield, protecting him from harm. God is his glory and the one who lifts his head high, signifying honor and encouragement in the midst of adversity.

Verse 4: A Cry for Help

David’s faith is evident as he calls out to the Lord. He trusts that God hears and answers him from His holy mountain. This assurance of divine response reinforces his reliance on God.

Verses 5-6: Peace and Courage

David experiences peace even in turmoil. He can lie down and sleep, waking up sustained by the Lord. This confidence enables him to face his enemies without fear, even when vastly outnumbered.

Verses 7-8: Deliverance and Blessing

David concludes with a plea for God’s intervention. He asks the Lord to arise and deliver him, striking his enemies and breaking the teeth of the wicked. This vivid imagery underscores his trust in God’s power to save. He ends with a proclamation that deliverance comes from the Lord and a prayer for God’s blessing on His people.

Conclusion

Psalm 3 is a powerful expression of trust in God amidst life’s battles. David’s reliance on the Lord for protection, peace, and deliverance serves as an inspiration to seek God’s presence and help in our own times of trouble.