Psalms 3-4
Dear RTB’ers,
Today’s Psalm 3 begins with a header notation, “A Psalm of David, when he fled from his son Absalom.” The title is associated with an incident reported in II Sam 15:13-17, when King David is on the run from his son, Absalom, who has attempted to usurp the throne from his father. Surprisingly, before he became king, David also spent many years fleeing from King Saul. So both before his reign and during his reign we see David fleeing for his life. But even as King David is fleeing from his son, I find that he has confidence in God’s deliverance: I cried aloud to the LORD, and He answered me from His holy hill. I lay down and slept; I woke again, for the LORD sustained me. (Psalm 3:4-5) His sleep does not appear to be one of fitfulness, restlessness, anxiety. Rather, he seeks the Lord’s deliverance and is confident in the answer that he receives. A good lesson for us! Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths. (Proverbs 3:5-6)
The confidence that David shows in Psalm 3 is reflected again in Psalm 4: But know that the LORD has set apart the godly for Himself; the LORD hears when I call to Him. (Psalm 4:3) And we see again David’s restful sleep: In peace I will both lie down and sleep; for You alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety. (Psalm 4:8) A good lesson for us!
Blessings!