Psalm 54

 Psalm 54

The backstory or historical context is critical to this Psalm.  The men of Ziph aligned themselves with Saul and chose to betray David.  Saul’s response is interesting; he plans to capture and murder David, but he sounds pious in the process: “May you be blessed of the Lord, for you have had compassion on me” (1 Samuel 23:21).  Not everyone who is fluent in ‘God talk’ is a good person.  

David has a narrow escape and pens these words as a response.  In v. 7 we see the word ‘delivered’ in NASB.  This word carries the connotation or implication of a covenant relationship. David’s rescue was not mere happenstance.  It was God acting out of the relationship between God and David. For David’s benefit, God even used the wicked heathen Philistines.  God rules all things for the benefit of His Kingdom.  We need not fear the plots, plans, and operations of the godless or the powers of darkness.  Nevertheless, it was a close call.  In the past part of verse 7, David says that his “eye has looked upon my enemy.”  Often translations insert words to clarify the meaning, but a literal translation may be best. David was within visual range when the rescue occurred.  God will not fail us.  But He may allow things to develop so that we are frightened occasionally.  

“Help me, Lord, to live in complete confidence and trust in You. AMEN.”