Psalm 31

Psalm 31 presents another Psalm of David during the time of fleeing from Saul that we have been read about in 1 Samuel 21-24. A brief reading of this psalm presents th early flight of David from Saul. However, others think it is more closely related to when his son Absalom was in rebellion toward the end of David’s life. The text reads better in light of En-gedi and Adullam early in David’s life (verse 2).

Verses 1-2-David is begging God to vindicate him, to listen to him, to rescue him. During this time of turmoil, David knew to whom he should look for protection. The caves are temporary but God is eternal.

Verses 3-5-David realized the truth purpose of God allowing the circumstances befalling David. That purpose is to bring glory to God. David knows that God is his Savior. He knows that he has been redeemed spiritually by God and realizes God can deliver him physically too.

Verses 6-8-Once again David speaks of God’s deliverance and how God has placed him in the straight place due to David’s trust in God.

Verses 9-10-David uses the same imagery of his body wasting away due to his adultery with Bathsheba in Psalm 32. If we could grab hold of what sin does to the body as well as the spirit, we might be less inclined to sin.

Verses 11-13-David doesn’t seem to be able to trust anyone. Who in his midst or around him is working for Saul? His neighbors are his enemies.

Verses 14-18-He turns his attention to the truth of whom God is and of His power. When we are surrounded, we need to remember to focus on God and who He is not the situation we find ourselves in at the moment. Do your circumstances overwhelm you? Well, God is greater than your circumstances (1 John 4.4).

Verses 19-20-God is sovereign and holds complete power.

Verses 21-22-When we cry out to Him, He listens (verses 1 and 22). But, we need to cry out to Him. When we think He is far from us, He is merely a whisper away.

Verses 23-24-This is a call for the saints to love God because of who He is and what He has done. Again, the motif of waiting on the Lord as we read in Psalm 27.

Our courage is only in Him for He alone is eternal and omnipotent. Where is your help coming from?

Author: Pastor David

David R Williamson is the founder of Teach for God Ministries. He holds degrees from Grace Bible College, Grand Canyon University, Grace Theological Seminary, and Walden University. David has been actively involved in ministry since 1979. He has ministered in various ministries from Sunday School teacher, Youth Pastor, to English Pastor in Taiwanese churches, including teaching ten years at the Junior High school level. Currently, David is teaching at Hillcrest Christian School at the High School level. He is also pulpit supply and retreat speaker for churches and other religious organizations. He is happily married to Karen with three children: Joshua, Kazlyn, and Joseph View all posts by Pastor David