The Righteous One’s Safety Amid Foes

This is the first psalm directly named as David’s, which he wrote when he fled from his son, Absalom. It is to be noted that although David was in great straits and stress, yet the composition depicts that he was given great calm and peace of mind after his initial fears and anxieties. This was because he looked to God and placed his confidence in Him, (vv. 3&4). We ought to remember this psalm when we, too, are surrounded by difficulties.

Psalm 3

   1  O Lord, how are my foes increased?
         against me many rise.
   2  Many say of my soul, For him
         in God no succor lies.

   3  Yet thou my shield and glory art,
         th' uplifter of mine head.
   4  I cried, and, from his holy hill,
         the Lord me answer made.

   5  I laid me down and slept; I waked;
         for God sustained me.
   6  I will not fear though thousands ten
         set round against me be.

   7  Arise, O Lord; save me, my God;
         for thou my foes hast stroke
      All on the cheek-bone, and the teeth
         of wicked men hast broke.

   8  Salvation doth appertain
         unto the Lord alone:
      Thy blessing, Lord, for evermore
         thy people is upon.