Psalms 3-4

Psalms 3-4

Chapter 3: Salvation is of God

                This is the first Psalm with a title: “A Psalm of David when he fled from Absalom his son.” 

                Most of the Psalms (by chapter) have a Title. These titles are part of the Canon and therefore are part of the scriptures. They are not just added in later, they were (or so we know) part of the original text from whence they were translated. 

“Lord, how are they increased that trouble me…” (Psalms 3:1) At the writing of this Psalm David was in a great deal of trouble. His own son led what seemed to be a successful rebellion against him. Many of his previous friends and associates forsook him and joined the ranks of those who “troubled” him (2 Samuel 15:13).

                “…tho, O Lord, art a shield for me…” (Psalms 3:3)

                David’s situation was so bad that men around him felt he was beyond God’s help. Though many said there was no help for him from God, David knew that God was his shield.  

                “I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people…” (Psalms 3:6)

With God sustaining him, David could stand against anyone.

                “Salvation belongeth unto the Lord: thy blessing is upon thy people” (Psalms 3:8)

David understood that salvation came only through God. No one or thing can give you your salvation. To be saved, one must go through the Lord Himself.

 Chapter 4: Put Your Trust in God

To the Chief Musician on Neginoth, A Psalm of David.

“Neginoth – Hebrew for Stringed Instruments”

 “Hear me… O God of my righteousness” (Psalms 4:1)

                There is passion in David’s cry. He doesn’t want to just ramble on to himself. He wants to make sure that his words reach the heavens for God to hear. David knew that his righteousness came from God, and not from himself.

                “Stand in awe, and sin not: commune with your own heart upon your bed and be still” (Psalms 4:4) 

                I think that David was reminding himself to NOT sin. However, I also believe that this is a reminder for everyone to not sin. One thing I find interesting is how it mentions communing with your heart and being still. Here David is talking about prayer. Prayer should be done with a open heart and reverence (being still). God does not need anyone to scream, he can hear you and a quiet, reverant place is where the Spirit of the Lord can be found.

                “I will both lay me down in peace and sleep: for thou, Lord, only makest me dwell in safety” (Psalms 4:8)

                I like to think of this as a reminder for us, to say our bed-time prayers. If we say our prayers before we go to sleep (and always for that matter), the Lord will help us to be a rest, peace and with safety.