This psalm is out of place in our study, it may have been overlooked along with Psalm 108, which will come later. Verses 6-12 are used in Psalm 60.5-12 (see our study). In our study of the Psalms, we have seen the term in the superscription, “Altaschith,” which means “Do not destroy,” occurs in Psalms 57-59 and 75 (see our study of Psalms 57, 58, 59, and 75). Although the meaning is not clear, some have conjectured that it was a tune of a popular song. Isaiah 65.8 seems to reference it. This psalm references the time David fled from Saul and lived in a cave, probably the cave of Adullam or the cave of Engedi (see our study of 1 Samuel 21-24). Another “cave” psalm is Psalm 142 (see our study).
Have two Selahs (pauses), we can rightly divide this psalm in three parts, which is a call for God’s mercy (1-3), a confession of trust (4-6), and a deep desire to praise (7-11). However, this psalm also contains a refrain in verses five and 11, which would divide the psalm in two parts. The latter option will be used here.
- Verses 1-5-Prayers and Complaints of David. The movement is from God to the threats against David.
Selah (3)-David recognizes that his help will be sent from Heaven. John reminds us that Jesus was sent from Heaven (John 1). Where do you find your help? Is it from the things of this world, people or stuff, or is it only in Jesus? The former things are useless in terms of eternity. Only He can help eternally (1 John 2.15-17).
David recognizes the enemy is like a lion seeking to devour him (1 Peter 5.8). But, he also knows that God is greater (1 John 4.4) and that faith in Him overcomes such things (1 John 5.4).
The refrain reminds us that God is the God of all nations, not merely one nation.
- Verses 6-11-Complaint of David leading to Exultation. These verses are used by many churches as a Resurrection Sunday (Easter) passage (8-11). The movement is from the threats back to God. David sees the traps the enemy has laid in his path. He also knows that God protects him from them and even causes them to fall into their own traps. These metaphors are quite appropriate due to the timing of this psalm. David is being pursued or hunted down by Saul who is laying out nets and digging holes to capture him.
Selah (6)-Do you know the traps Satan has set for you (2 Corinthians 2.11 and Ephesians 6.11)? Do you know those temptations that so easily cause you to stumble (Hebrews 12.1-2)? Are you asking God to help you overcome them (1 Corinthians 10.13) or do you think you can handle them yourself (1 Corinthians 10.12)?
Verse one presents the phrase “In the shadow of Your wings will I make my refuge.” This phrase is first used in Deuteronomy 32.11, it is a stirring metaphor. We find in this psalm that David ran to that shelter. As Jesus looked over the city of Jerusalem, He cried out that the nation of Israel did not seek that shelter (Matthew 23.37). Protection, mercy, kindness, salvation, joy, and life, to name a few, are found in that shelter. Where are you today? If you are a Christian, run to His shelter. If you are not a Christian, you need to ask Him to be your shelter.
In verse two, David realizes that it is only God who has a purpose for good for us (John 10) and it is only He who can fulfill it (Ephesians 2.8-10). To what purpose has God called you? He has one for you. How has He gifted you? What are your passions? What experiences have you lived through? What talents do you have? These are some questions to ponder as you seek to know to what He has called you.
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It is a blessing to know that we can rest under God’s shelter, and that His shelter is safe and everlasting. God is the only true and reliable source for help and peace we should seek. God is greater and more powerful than our troubles; He can overcome all. For His love and His faithfulness, we are to praise Him.
Another Psalm with an amazing double etantandre