This psalm was written during the time of Absalom’s revolt (2 Samuel 15-18). We can sense the men of David who deserted or lied to him when Absalom rebelled in this psalm. The men were Ahithophel his counselor (4), Shemei the one still loyal to King Saul’s family (4), and Ziba the servant of the crippled Mephibosheth (3).
Another reference to Jeduthun (Psalm 39, 77, and 89). A feature of this psalm is the word “only.” It is repeated six times.
- My soul waits in silence for God only (1)
- He only is my rock and my salvation (2)
- They have counseled only to thrust him down from his high position (4)
- My soul, wait in silence for God only (5)
- He only is my rock and my salvation (6)
- Men of low degree are only vanity and men of rank are a lie (9)
The psalm is neatly divided into three parts by the Selahs (pause). The first two divisions begin with the same words with one replacement. “Salvation” in verse one is replaced with “hope” in verse five. This presents the one who has received salvation with the surety of its completion (Hebrews 11.1-2).
- Verses 1-4-As seen above this portion of the psalm is a complaint to God regarding those who have gone against David in his flight from Absalom in 2 Samuel 15. He is trusting in God to bring him safely through this matter.
Selah: Do you desire to wait patiently (Isaiah 40.28-31 and Psalm 103.1-5 [see our study]) or let circumstances and people determine your life?
- Verses 5-8-David expresses what faith is and it is the essence of things hoped for. David knew that God would bring about His will and that God would be glorified and blessed through these dire circumstances. He then calls people to trust in God even as he does.
Selah: Do you proclaim God’s work in you so that others can glorify Him too?
- Verses 9-12-David knew that man is temporary and that God is greater. This is the proclamation here.
- Verses 9-10-The measure of a man is directly related to his relationship with God, which is then defined by his fellowship with God.
- Verses 11-12-God is a powerful God full of love and mercy. He provides each of us with spiritual gifts and other blessings. He demands that we use these to bless Him and others through Him. We will be judged according to what we have done (Matthew 25.31-46). This is not a judgment of salvation but a critique of works we have done that He has called and created us to do (Ephesians 2.8-10 and Philippians 2.12-14).
When God states something twice as in this verse, it is emphatic. David is telling us to listen carefully (Job 33.14). This is why Jesus would repeat “Amen” to His followers (Verily, verily). He was basically instructing them to listen up, pay close attention, because this will be on the test.
God is described in this psalm as
- Rock (1-2, 6-7)
- Salvation (2, 6-7)
- Defense (2, 6)
- Glory (7)
- Refuge (7-8)
- Power (11)
- Mercy (12)
Who or what do you trust the God described above or men who are here today and gone tomorrow, men who we celebrate, oppressing others to get your way, stealing what you want because you cannot trust God to get to you what you need, or wealth? Each of these is mentioned in this psalm as not satisfying our souls.
Media
- Psalm 62 by Aaron Keyes
Trusting in God can be very challenging. God should be the easiest person to trust, but sometimes it is very difficult. I speculate that it is difficult because it tests and strengthens our faith. Circumstances can overwhelm us and make us lose all hope, but we need to surrender these things to God and rest in Him.
As stated in verse 10, some people choose to trust in wealth and riches, but these things are temporary. Only God is everlasting and only He can provide us with our needs.