May 29, 2024

Who Is the Rock? He Is the Rock!

Psalm 18

Teegn Sisson
Wednesday's Devo

May 29, 2024

Wednesday's Devo

May 29, 2024

Wednesday's Devo

May 29, 2024

Wednesday's Devo

May 29, 2024

Big Book Idea

Thinking and feeling God's way.

Key Verse | Psalm 18:1-3

I love you, O LORD, my strength. 
The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer,
my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge, 
my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.
I call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised,
and I am saved from my enemies.

Psalm 18

The LORD Is My Rock and My Fortress

To the choirmaster. A Psalm of David, the servant of the LORD, who addressed the words of this song to the LORD on the day when the LORD delivered him from the hand of all his enemies, and from the hand of Saul. He said:

1  I love you, O LORD, my strength.
2  The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer,
    my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge,
    my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.
3  I call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised,
    and I am saved from my enemies.

4  The cords of death encompassed me;
    the torrents of destruction assailed me; 1 18:4 Or terrified me
5  the cords of Sheol entangled me;
    the snares of death confronted me.

6  In my distress I called upon the LORD;
    to my God I cried for help.
From his temple he heard my voice,
    and my cry to him reached his ears.

7  Then the earth reeled and rocked;
    the foundations also of the mountains trembled
    and quaked, because he was angry.
8  Smoke went up from his nostrils, 2 18:8 Or in his wrath
    and devouring fire from his mouth;
    glowing coals flamed forth from him.
9  He bowed the heavens and came down;
    thick darkness was under his feet.
10  He rode on a cherub and flew;
    he came swiftly on the wings of the wind.
11  He made darkness his covering, his canopy around him,
    thick clouds dark with water.
12  Out of the brightness before him
    hailstones and coals of fire broke through his clouds.

13  The LORD also thundered in the heavens,
    and the Most High uttered his voice,
    hailstones and coals of fire.
14  And he sent out his arrows and scattered them;
    he flashed forth lightnings and routed them.
15  Then the channels of the sea were seen,
    and the foundations of the world were laid bare
at your rebuke, O LORD,
    at the blast of the breath of your nostrils.

16  He sent from on high, he took me;
    he drew me out of many waters.
17  He rescued me from my strong enemy
    and from those who hated me,
    for they were too mighty for me.
18  They confronted me in the day of my calamity,
    but the LORD was my support.
19  He brought me out into a broad place;
    he rescued me, because he delighted in me.

20  The LORD dealt with me according to my righteousness;
    according to the cleanness of my hands he rewarded me.
21  For I have kept the ways of the LORD,
    and have not wickedly departed from my God.
22  For all his rules 3 18:22 Or just decrees were before me,
    and his statutes I did not put away from me.
23  I was blameless before him,
    and I kept myself from my guilt.
24  So the LORD has rewarded me according to my righteousness,
    according to the cleanness of my hands in his sight.

25  With the merciful you show yourself merciful;
    with the blameless man you show yourself blameless;
26  with the purified you show yourself pure;
    and with the crooked you make yourself seem tortuous.
27  For you save a humble people,
    but the haughty eyes you bring down.
28  For it is you who light my lamp;
    the LORD my God lightens my darkness.
29  For by you I can run against a troop,
    and by my God I can leap over a wall.
30  This God—his way is perfect; 4 18:30 Or blameless
    the word of the LORD proves true;
    he is a shield for all those who take refuge in him.

31  For who is God, but the LORD?
    And who is a rock, except our God?—
32  the God who equipped me with strength
    and made my way blameless.
33  He made my feet like the feet of a deer
    and set me secure on the heights.
34  He trains my hands for war,
    so that my arms can bend a bow of bronze.
35  You have given me the shield of your salvation,
    and your right hand supported me,
    and your gentleness made me great.
36  You gave a wide place for my steps under me,
    and my feet did not slip.
37  I pursued my enemies and overtook them,
    and did not turn back till they were consumed.
38  I thrust them through, so that they were not able to rise;
    they fell under my feet.
39  For you equipped me with strength for the battle;
    you made those who rise against me sink under me.
40  You made my enemies turn their backs to me, 5 18:40 Or You gave me my enemies' necks
    and those who hated me I destroyed.
41  They cried for help, but there was none to save;
    they cried to the LORD, but he did not answer them.
42  I beat them fine as dust before the wind;
    I cast them out like the mire of the streets.

43  You delivered me from strife with the people;
    you made me the head of the nations;
    people whom I had not known served me.
44  As soon as they heard of me they obeyed me;
    foreigners came cringing to me.
45  Foreigners lost heart
    and came trembling out of their fortresses.

46  The LORD lives, and blessed be my rock,
    and exalted be the God of my salvation—
47  the God who gave me vengeance
    and subdued peoples under me,
48  who rescued me from my enemies;
    yes, you exalted me above those who rose against me;
    you delivered me from the man of violence.

49  For this I will praise you, O LORD, among the nations,
    and sing to your name.
50  Great salvation he brings to his king,
    and shows steadfast love to his anointed,
    to David and his offspring forever.

Footnotes

[1] 18:4 Or terrified me
[2] 18:8 Or in his wrath
[3] 18:22 Or just decrees
[4] 18:30 Or blameless
[5] 18:40 Or You gave me my enemies' necks
Table of Contents
Introduction to The Psalms

Introduction to The Psalms

Timeline

Author and Date

Individual psalms come from diverse periods of Israel’s history, but at every stage they served as the songbook of God’s people. David wrote about half of the Psalms. His role as king was more than that of a ruler. He was to represent and even embody the people, and their well-being was tied to his faithfulness. David, then, writes as a representative, and the readers must discern whether the emphasis of a psalm is more on his role as ruler or more on his role as ideal Israelite, in which he is an example for all. The historical occasions mentioned in the psalm titles help the reader see how faith applies to real-life situations.

Key Themes

The Psalter is fundamentally the hymnbook of God’s people. It takes the basic themes of OT theology and turns them into song:

  1. Monotheism. The one God, Maker and Ruler of all, will vindicate his goodness and justice in his own time. Everyone must know and love this God, whose purity, power, wisdom, faithfulness, and unceasing love are breathtakingly beautiful.
  2. Creation and fall. Though God made man with dignity and purpose, all people since the fall are beset with sins and weaknesses that only God’s grace can heal.
  3. Election and covenant. The one true God chose a people for himself and bound himself to them by his covenant. This covenant expressed God’s intention to save his people, and through them to bring light to the world.
  4. Covenant membership. In his covenant, God offers grace to his people: forgiveness of their sins, the shaping of their lives to reflect his own glory, and a part to play as light to the Gentiles. Each member of God’s people is responsible to believe God’s promises and to grow in obeying his commands. Those who do this enjoy the full benefits of God’s love and find delight in knowing him. The well-being of God’s people as a whole affects the well-being of each member. Each one shares the joys and sorrows of the others. When believers suffer, they should not seek revenge but should pray. They can be confident that God will make all things right in his own time.
  5. Eschatology. The story of God’s people is headed toward a glorious future, in which all kinds of people will come to know the Lord. The personal faithfulness of God’s people contributes to his ultimate purpose. The Messiah, the ultimate heir of David, will lead his people in the great task of bringing light to the Gentiles.

Types of Psalms

The Psalms can be identified according to some basic categories:

Laments, which lay a troubled situation before the Lord, asking him for help. There are community (Psalm 12) and individual (Psalm 13) laments. This category is the largest by far, including up to a third of all Psalms.

Hymns of praise, which call God’s people to admire his great attributes and deeds. Examples include Psalms 8; 93; and 145.

Hymns of thanksgiving. As with laments, there are community (Psalm 9) and individual (Psalm 30) thanksgiving psalms.

Hymns celebrating God’s law (Psalm 119).

Wisdom psalms (Psalms 1; 37), which reflect themes from the Wisdom Books (Job, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon).

Songs of confidence, which enable worshipers to deepen their trust in God amid difficult circumstances (Psalm 23).

Royal psalms, which present the Davidic monarchy as the vehicle of blessing for God’s people. Some of these are prayers (Psalm 20), some are thanksgivings (Psalm 21). All relate to the Messiah, the ultimate heir of David, either by setting a pattern (Psalms 20–21) or by portraying the king’s reign in such a way that only the Messiah can completely fulfill it (Psalms 2; 72), or by focusing on the future (Psalm 110).

Historical psalms, which take lessons from the history of God’s dealings with his people (Psalm 78).

Prophetic hymns, which echo the Prophets, calling people to covenant faithfulness (Psalm 81).

Structure

The standard Hebrew text divides the Psalms into five “books,” perhaps in imitation of the five books of the Pentateuch.

Book 1 Psalms 1–41 Psalms 1–2 provide an introduction to the Psalms as a whole. Except for Psalms 10 and 33, the remaining psalms of Book 1 are psalms of David. Most of them are prayers of distress. Others are statements of confidence in the God who alone can save (e.g., 9; 11; 16; 18), striking the note that concludes the book (40–41). Reflections on ethics and worship are found in Psalms 1; 14–15; 19; 24; and 26.
Book 2 Psalms 42–72 Book 2 introduces the first group of psalms by the “sons of Korah” (42; 44–49; 50). There are also more psalms of David (51–65; 68–69), including most of the “historical” psalms (51–52; 54; 56–57; 59–60; 63). Once again, lament and distress dominate these prayers, which now also include a communal voice (e.g., 44; compare 67; 68). The lone psalm attributed to Solomon concludes Book 2 with a look at God’s ideal for Israel’s kings—ultimately pointing to Christ as the final great King of God’s people.
Book 3 Psalms 73–89 The tone darkens further in Book 3. The opening Psalm 73 starkly questions the justice of God before seeing light in God’s presence. That light has almost escaped the psalmist in Psalm 88, the bleakest of all psalms. Book 2 ended with the high point of royal aspirations; Book 3 concludes in Psalm 89 with these expectations badly threatened. Sharp rays of hope occasionally pierce the darkness (e.g., 75; 85; 87). The brief third book contains most of the psalms of Asaph (73–83), as well as another set of Korah psalms (84–85; 87–88).
Book 4 Psalms 90–106 Psalm 90 opens the fourth book of the psalms. It may be seen as the first response to the problems raised by Book 3. Psalm 90, attributed to Moses, reminds the worshiper that God was active on Israel’s behalf long before David. This theme is taken up in Psalms 103–106, which summarize God’s dealings with his people before any kings reigned. In between there is a group of psalms (93–100) characterized by the refrain “The LORD reigns.” This truth refutes the doubts of Psalm 89.
Book 5 Psalms 107–150 The structure of Book 5 reflects the closing petition of Book 4 in 106:47. It declares that God does answer prayer (107) and concludes with five Hallelujah psalms (146–150). In between there are several psalms affirming the validity of the promises to David (110; 132; 144), two collections of Davidic psalms (108–110; 138–145); the longest psalm, celebrating the value of God’s law (119); and 15 psalms of ascent for use by pilgrims to Jerusalem (120–134).
The Global Message of The Psalms

The Global Message of The Psalms

The Psalms are a resounding call for all God’s people and for all the world to sing! We are called to sing songs of confession and trust in God; to sing songs of thanksgiving and praise. The Psalms summon the global church to take up the cause of calling the world to join in such global and eternal songs of trust in, delight in, and worship of God for his magnificence—especially his magnificence displayed in his saving mercy.

Songs of Honest Lament

There is a surprising degree of honesty found in the prayers and songs of the Psalms. We find honest lament to God, with frequent repetition of questions such as “Why?” and “How long?” The psalmist asks in Psalm 42:9, “Why have you forgotten me?” Another psalm wonders, “Why, O LORD, do you stand far away? Why do you hide yourself in times of trouble?” (10:1; see also 88:14). “How long, O LORD?” is a frequent cry to God in the Psalms (see 6:3; 13:1; 79:5; 89:46).

Such prayers flow from desperately challenging situations, in which life feels overwhelming. Yet they also reflect the confident expectations of our honest cries to our compassionate and faithful God. The Lord invites his people worldwide to be boldly transparent before him—no masks, no pretense—even when the heart is breaking. He promises never to abandon those who belong to him.

Songs of Repentance and Trust

Songs of repentance are scattered throughout the Psalms. In such songs there are confessions of corporate sin—“Both we and our fathers have sinned; we have committed iniquity; we have done wickedness” (Ps. 106:6)—and individual songs of penitence (Psalms 6; 25; 32; 38; 51; 130; 143). These are not hopeless laments, but cries to a God who is a gracious deliverer (6:4), who deals with us according to his great love and mercy (51:1), and whose forgiveness flows from his goodness and not ours (130:3–4).

There is abundant reason to trust such a God for every good thing and in every situation (Psalm 23). To such a God we turn in times of great trouble, when we are at an utter loss in this fallen world. When enemies surround us and there is no one to help, God is our hope for deliverance (Psalm 22). Whether the desperate individual (Psalm 13) or the destitute community (Psalm 12) is in view, God is faithful to his promises. His steadfast love endures. He is worthy of our songs!

Songs of Thanksgiving and Praise

The Psalms are a divinely orchestrated hymnbook of thanksgiving and praise for God’s people. The covenant people of God return thanks to God for his wonderful deeds of deliverance, justice, and defense (Psalm 9), and for his favor and mercies (30:5, 7, 8, 10). All of this moves his people to burst into songs of joy and glad dancing (30:11–12).

In the Psalms, the people of God rejoice in all that God is and all that he has done. These songs of praise exalt God for his unsearchable greatness, his glorious splendor, and his awesome deeds (Ps. 145:3–6). He is worshiped as the King over all creation (93:1),the eternal King (10:16), the King of glory (24:8, 10), the King of all the earth (47:7), and the great King above all gods (95:3).

The Global Message of the Psalms

For all God’s people. The global message of the Psalms is that in light of God’s unfailing love and faithfulness there is a song to be sung by all God’s people everywhere—whatever their circumstances, whatever their emotions, whatever their adversity. The song to be sung will be of varied themes: lament, confession, repentance, thanksgiving, or praise to God. All of these, however, are songs of worship, expressing the universal experiences of God’s people. This is worship of God by the individual and the community, local and global, young and old (Ps. 148:12), now and forever (89:52). For a lost world filled with rebellion and sorrow, there is no greater remedy than a song that brings those who sing it to take refuge in God himself: a song for the oppressed, the hungry, the prisoner, the sojourner, the widow, and the fatherless (146:7–9).

A new song. The message of the Psalms is a call to the whole world to “Sing a new song!” “Oh sing to the LORD a new song; sing to the LORD, all the earth!” (Ps. 96:1). This is not a song of empty promises, but a song full of hope, a song exulting in the salvation of a covenant keeping and merciful God; not a song that fades, but an enduring, eternal song; a song of a God who lifts us out of mud and mire (69:2, 14).

Celebrating salvation. The book of Psalms opens with a picture of the two ways of life—the blessed and fruitful life of the one who delights in God, and the fleeting life of the wicked who (apart from God) stand condemned (Psalm 1). The world is called to set aside folly and to join in the life and song of the Redeemer, celebrating the salvation that is rooted in the sacrifice of the Savior (Psalm 22). This new song has been sung down through the ages; it continues today throughout the world; and it will one day be sung in the very throne room of God (Rev. 14:3).

Summoning the Nations

To the ends of the earth. The global church has a message for the world: join in this song! It is a celebration that will generate further praise—globally, generationally, and eternally. The church is to “declare his glory among the nations!” (Ps. 96:3). From Israel to the Christian church today to the global kingdom that will one day be known to the very ends of the earth, the redeemed of the Lord will come from every nation, tribe, people, and language, giving God thanks and celebrating his grace (Rev. 7:9).

For all nations. There is a message for the nations: “Praise the LORD, all nations! Extol him, all peoples!” (Ps. 117:1). The Lord humbles the nations (9:5, 19, 20), but he extends to all an offer of mercy and grace. One day, the nations will become Christ’s inheritance (2:8). This song begins with us but it must not end with us. There is a glorious globalization of the worship of God that we are privileged to help advance. In Christ we have found fullness of joy and pleasures forevermore (16:11). In turn we call the nations as well to be glad and sing for joy in him (67:4).

Fulfilled in Jesus. The love and mercy of God that forms the heart of the Psalms explodes onto history with the coming of Christ. It is in and through him that believers worldwide see God’s covenant faithfulness right before their eyes.

Spreading God’s glory. That glorious, global worship of God through Jesus Christ is not yet fully known or complete. Generating it is therefore our glad mission while on this earth. We will not rest till God’s glorious name is blessed forever and the whole earth is filled with his glory (Ps. 72:19).

2 Samuel Fact #19: Song of Deliverance

Fact: Song of Deliverance

David’s Song of Deliverance is nearly identical to Psalm 18. Perhaps 2 Samuel 22 was meant to be read aloud for instruction and Psalm 18 was meant to be sung or prayed as part of worship.

Psalms Fact #3: How are the Psalms divided?

Fact: How are the Psalms divided?

How are the Psalms divided? The Psalms are divided into five books: 1–41; 42–72; 73–89; 90–106; 107–150. Each book ends with a “doxology,” a hymn of praise to God.

Psalms Fact #4: What was the main purpose of the Psalms for the people of God?

Fact: What was the main purpose of the Psalms for the people of God?

What was the main purpose of the Psalms for the people of God? The Psalms were the songbook of the people of God when they gathered for worship.

Psalms Fact #6: What is a psalm of lament?

Fact: What is a psalm of lament?

What is a psalm of lament? The main purpose of a psalm of lament is to tell the Lord about a difficult situation, to ask him for his help, and to praise him for helping. Some laments are community, congregational psalms. Others are individual, personal laments. One third of all the Psalms are psalms of lament.

Psalms Fact #7: How many of the Psalms were written by David?

Fact: How many of the Psalms were written by David?

How many of the Psalms were written by David? David is the author of about half of the Psalms. Other authors include Asaph, Solomon, Moses, and the sons of Korah.

Psalms Fact #9: What defined someone as an “enemy” of the people of Israel?

Fact: What defined someone as an “enemy” of the people of Israel?

What defined someone as an “enemy” of the people of Israel? The “enemies” mentioned in the Psalms (e.g., 18:17) were people hostile to the faith of God’s people. Sometimes they expressed their hatred by physically attacking the people of Israel, while other times they merely rejoiced when Israel faced misfortunes.

Psalms Fact #10: Are the Psalms poetry?

Fact: Are the Psalms poetry?

Are the Psalms poetry? The Psalms often reflect the feelings or emotions of the person who wrote the psalm. The book of Psalms includes poetry that covers all kinds of emotional feelings and experiences, from anguish and sorrow to great joy and thanksgiving.

Psalms Fact #12: How often does the NT quote from the Psalms?

Fact: How often does the NT quote from the Psalms?

How often does the NT quote from the Psalms? Of all the OT books, the Psalms and Isaiah are by far the two most widely quoted in the NT.

Psalms Fact #13: Selah

Fact: Selah

What does Selah mean? Although the word Selah is found 39 times in the book of Psalms, its exact meaning is uncertain. Most scholars believe it is a musical term or a term to be used by a worship leader, possibly to mark a pause.

Psalms Fact #20: Snares

Fact: Snares

Snares (38:12) were traps used to catch birds and animals. Some snares used ropes or nets that would be triggered as soon as the bait was touched. Pits disguised with sticks and leaves were also used as snares. In the Psalms, snares serve as symbols of danger or death at the hands of the wicked.

Psalms Fact #27: A helpful guide

Fact: A helpful guide

A helpful guide. The writers of the Psalms understood the importance of constant communication with God. They knew that God would hear their prayers, and they trusted him to act on their behalf. Believers today can benefit greatly by patterning their prayers after specific psalms.

Psalms Fact #28: Memorizing the Psalms

Fact: Memorizing the Psalms

Memorizing the Psalms. The poetic style of the Psalms make them easy to memorize. Throughout the centuries, many believers have memorized all 150 Psalms.

Psalms Fact #40: How long?

Fact: How long?

How long? This question (79:5) occurs nearly twenty times in the Psalms, more than any other question. It is almost always associated with a psalm of lament, such as Psalm 79.

Structure of Psalms

Structure of Psalms

The standard Hebrew text divides the Psalms into five “books,” perhaps in imitation of the five books of the Pentateuch.

Book 1 Psalms 1–41 Psalms 1–2 provide an introduction to the Psalms as a whole. Except for Psalms 10 and 33, the remaining psalms of Book 1 are psalms of David. Most of them are prayers of distress. Others are statements of confidence in the God who alone can save (e.g., 9; 11; 16; 18), striking the note that concludes the book (40–41). Reflections on ethics and worship are found in Psalms 1; 14–15; 19; 24; and 26.
Book 2 Psalms 42–72 Book 2 introduces the first group of psalms by the “sons of Korah” (42; 44–49; 50). There are also more psalms of David (51–65; 68–69), including most of the “historical” psalms (51–52; 54; 56–57; 59–60; 63). Once again, lament and distress dominate these prayers, which now also include a communal voice (e.g., 44; compare 67; 68). The lone psalm attributed to Solomon concludes Book 2 with a look at God’s ideal for Israel’s kings—ultimately pointing to Christ as the final great King of God’s people.
Book 3 Psalms 73–89 The tone darkens further in Book 3. The opening Psalm 73 starkly questions the justice of God before seeing light in God’s presence. That light has almost escaped the psalmist in Psalm 88, the bleakest of all psalms. Book 2 ended with the high point of royal aspirations; Book 3 concludes in Psalm 89 with these expectations badly threatened. Sharp rays of hope occasionally pierce the darkness (e.g., 75; 85; 87). The brief third book contains most of the psalms of Asaph (73–83), as well as another set of Korah psalms (84–85; 87–88).
Book 4 Psalms 90–106 Psalm 90 opens the fourth book of the psalms. It may be seen as the first response to the problems raised by Book 3. Psalm 90, attributed to Moses, reminds the worshiper that God was active on Israel’s behalf long before David. This theme is taken up in Psalms 103–106, which summarize God’s dealings with his people before any kings reigned. In between there is a group of psalms (93–100) characterized by the refrain “The LORD reigns.” This truth refutes the doubts of Psalm 89.
Book 5 Psalms 107–150 The structure of Book 5 reflects the closing petition of Book 4 in 106:47. It declares that God does answer prayer (107) and concludes with five Hallelujah psalms (146–150). In between there are several psalms affirming the validity of the promises to David (110; 132; 144), two collections of Davidic psalms (108–110; 138–145); the longest psalm, celebrating the value of God’s law (119); and 15 psalms of ascent for use by pilgrims to Jerusalem (120–134).
OT Testimony that All Are under Sin (3:9)

OT Testimony that All Are under Sin (3:9)

Romans 3 OT Reference
Sinful Condition
v. 10, none is righteous Ps. 14:3/53:3; Eccles. 7:20
v. 11a, no one understands Ps. 14:2/53:2
v. 11b, no one seeks for God Ps. 14:2/53:2
v. 12, all have turned aside; together they have become worthless; no one does good, not even one Ps. 14:3/53:3
Sinful Speech (note progression from throat to tongue to lips)
v. 13a, b, their throat is an open grave; they use their tongues to deceive Ps. 5:10, Septuagint (English, 5:9)
v. 13c, the venom of asps is under their lips Ps. 140:3
v. 14, their mouth is full of curses and bitterness Ps. 10:7
Sinful Action
v. 15, their feet are swift to shed blood Prov. 1:16/Isa. 59:7
v. 16, in their paths are ruin and misery Isa. 59:7
v. 17, and the way of peace they have not known Isa. 59:8
Summary Statement
v. 18, there is no fear of God before their eyes Ps. 36:1
Study Notes

Ps. 18:1–3 The opening verses summarize the theme of the psalm: David has found the Lord to be a reliable defender against his enemies.

Study Notes

Ps. 18:7–19 God in his heavenly fortress suddenly takes notice of David’s need and quickly comes to his aid.

Study Notes

Ps. 18:20–30 David claims that he has faithfully kept the ways of the LORD (v. 21), and thus God has rewarded him (vv. 20, 24). These claims are not self-righteous; the ways, rules, and statutes of the Lord (v. 22) include provisions for receiving forgiveness of sins.

Ps. 18:30 The ESV footnote (substituting “blameless” for perfect) suggests that following the Lord’s blameless way (see v. 21) is what enables a man to become blameless (vv. 23, 25).

Study Notes

Ps. 18:31–45 David’s rescue (vv. 16–19) came by way of his military skill, which was itself God’s gift.

Study Notes

Psalm Ps. 18. This royal psalm celebrates the way God has shown his love to his people by giving them the Davidic monarchy and by preserving David through many dangers (see v. 50). The text of the psalm is almost identical to David’s personal expression of gratitude to the Lord in 2 Samuel 22.

Ps. 18:46–50 David’s expectation that he will praise the Lord among the nations (v. 49; see Rom. 15:9) returns readers to the call of Abram, in whom the nations were to find blessing (Gen. 12:1–3).

Ps. 18:50 salvation. David’s victories are part of God’s commitment to his people and to the whole world. Steadfast love to . . . David and his offspring forever echoes 2 Sam. 7:12–16.

2 Samuel Fact #19: Song of Deliverance

Fact: Song of Deliverance

David’s Song of Deliverance is nearly identical to Psalm 18. Perhaps 2 Samuel 22 was meant to be read aloud for instruction and Psalm 18 was meant to be sung or prayed as part of worship.

S3:104 Psalm 18

Listen Now

Dive Deeper | Psalm 18

Psalm 18 is a beautiful picture of who the God that grants salvation is, what the heart that receives this salvation looks like, and the proper response by a recipient of such abundant grace.

We see that this God is a personal God. He has an intimate relationship, full of love, with those in whom He delights. The word my is used nine times in the psalm's first two verses alone. This is a deeply personal God!

We see that this God is also a powerful God, whose Word can bring about creation (Genesis 1) and can also bring about destruction: "Then the channels of the sea were seen, and the foundations of the world were laid bare at your rebuke, O LORD, at the blast of the breath of your nostrils." (Psalm 18:15) Yet this same God is merciful: "With the merciful you show yourself merciful . . . ." (Psalm 18:25a) Finally, we see again and again throughout this psalm that this God is the source of salvation, and the only source.

We see the acknowledgment of this truth marks the heart that can receive such salvation. David makes it abundantly clear that he is completely helpless in the face of death and his enemies: "He rescued me from my strong enemy and from those who hated me, for they were too mighty for me." (Psalm 18:17) This is a heart of dependence, and it is this posture that leads to David's salvation here. We see this kind of humility is crucial to salvation: "For you save a humble people, but the haughty eyes you bring down." (Psalm 18:27)

Finally, we see the proper response of one who receives such amazing salvation! We see praise and thanksgiving. The whole psalm is written in response to His deliverance! While this may seem obvious, I know that my thanksgiving to the Lord is always disproportionate to the pleading that took place before. This psalm reminds me of the proper response to such an amazing God and the amazing salvation He offers!

This month's memory verse

If you love me, you will keep my commandments.

– John 14:15

Discussion Questions

1. Paul seems to read Psalm 18 christologically (see Romans 15:8-12; Psalm 18:49). Read Psalm 18 through one more time. Where do you see Jesus in Pslam 18?

2. When you reflect on your prayer life, do you spend as much time in thanksgiving for the Lord answering your prayers as you did pleading for Him to do so?

3. What is your view of God? Is He personal or distant? Do you view Him as your rock, your fortress, your deliverer?

4. What practices can you put in place to create space for you, like David, to praise the Lord for His faithfulness in your life?

As we gear up to release even more features for Join The Journey in 2025, our staff team, unfortunately, no longer has the margin to continue to support the comment functionality. We have big things in store for Join The Journey 2025. Stay tuned!

MS

Michael Scaman

David begins like a love note. Most of Psalm 18 is taken from a passage in the Old Testament 2 Sam 22 but with a verse added up front. I love you, O LORD, my strength. David’s superpower and not so secret weapon is God and the love of God. O Palmer Robertson has a couple big things to say about Psalm 18: First Psalm 1 and 2, 18 and 19, 118 and 119 are pairs of Messiah Law . He sees these. as important and to be highlighted . And 18 is the messiah part of one such pair. The talk of heavens and the righteousness of the law in ps 19 the other and a pair. A significant pattern. The Messiah who will be in David’s dynasty and morality and God’s character revealed in God’s law bound together. Second Robertson says ps 18 is where. God put David's enemies behind him and so a type of watershed. In the book of psalms in his view. You see David’s deliverance from his enemies in the title which is in the original title. Robertson feels several shifts will happen in the book. One being a shift toward teaching and instruction another being tying David’s dynasty to the messiah and God. We can also say that our thinking and feeling affects how see God. The pure in heart shall see God and a change of heart is needed by grace to see God rightly. As it says here ps 18:25-26. “25 With the merciful you show yourself merciful; with the blameless man you show yourself blameless; 26 with the purified you show yourself pure; and with the crooked you make yourself seem tortuous.” So the pure in heart will see God as Psalm 17 ended in a resurrection. And will enjoy God forever as psalm 16 ended. Here in psalm 18 how well you see and know God is affected by your heart and shows a need for salvation and change of heart as well as disciplines of Grace guarding your heart. The love of God is David’s superpower and this an encouragement to others to the same.
GJ

greg jones

“I know that my thanksgiving to the Lord is always disproportionate to the pleading that took place before.” I can so relate to that. Great statement. Where do you see Jesus in Pslam 18? Great question. I don’t see Jesus in Psalm 18 per se. I see Paul read reading Psalm 18 very creatively and flipping the script. For this I will praise you, O LORD, among the nations. Psalm 18:49 The “for this” is pretty much all the verses that preceded v49. This is one. You delivered me from strife with the people; you made me the head of the nations; people whom I had not known served me. Psalm 18:43 That’s sorta Jesus, but Paul sorta blows it up a little. For even Christ did not please himself but, as it is written: “The insults of those who insult you have fallen on me.”(Psalm 69:9) Romans 15:3 For I tell you that Christ has become a servant of the Jews on behalf of God’s truth, so that the promises made to the patriarchs might be confirmed. Romans 15:8 So being “delivered from strife with the people” is flipped with “insults have fallen on me” in 15:3. “You made me the head of the nations; people whom I had not known served me” is flipped with “Christ has become a servant of the Jews” in 15:8. The praise of verse 49 is more about this.   I pursued my enemies and overtook them, and did not turn back till they were consumed. I thrust them through, so that they were not able to rise; they fell under my feet. For you equipped me with strength for the battle; you made those who rise against me sink under me. You made my enemies turn their backs to me, and those who hated me I destroyed. They cried for help, but there was none to save; they cried to the LORD, but he did not answer them. I beat them fine as dust before the wind; I cast them out like the mire of the streets. Psalm 18:37-42 Paul knows the line “I cast them out like the mire of the streets” is in Psalm 18 when he writes in Romans “Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.” Psalm 18 is not a Psalm about doing this. “We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up.” Caesar would get Psalm 18 just as it written. It’s full of the kind of imagery he would want to emulate. Many Jews would get Psalm 18 just as it is written. It’s full of the kind of imagery they’re longing for God to emulate on their behalf against Caesar. Using that example I see Paul, separating Psalm 18:49 from Psalm 18:1-48 and applying it, basically, to Romans 15:1-8, therefore flipping the Psalm script. And it is an example of: but we preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles. 1 Corinthians 1:23 It’s easier to see that here than it is in 1 Corinthians. For me that’s Jesus in Psalm 18. ——————————————————- It’s a long intro to Psalm 18. These things would have preceded the building of the temple. They would have even preceded 2 Samuel 7. Verse 6 makes some scholars question whether David is the author or if the intro is an instruction to imagine David as the speaker and the circumstance he is speaking from for worship purposes.
MS

Michael Sisson

Re: Psalm 18:31 Psalms 18:31 (NASB) For who is God, but the LORD? And >>>who is a rock, except our God,<<< Psalms 18:31 (NIV) For who is God besides the LORD? >>>And who is the Rock except our God?<<< See also: Gen 49:24, Dt 32:31; 1Sa 2:2; Ps 18:31; 89:26;118:22; Isa 8:14; 28:16; Rom 9:33; 1Pet 2:5-8 c.f. Mt 16:18
SF

Shawn Foster

Welcome to Texas Teeng. Thank you very much for a clear synopsis. Very good. I like the example David set by starting with “I love you Lord, my strength.” I’d been on this journey for years before I heard a friend address God so personally at the beginning of a prayer. Yet it makes total sense in light of our salvation. God’s word, and the Psalm in particular- are a joy just to ‘marinate in’- reflect and meditate upon. Rich rich rich. Living and active, life giving. Thank you again for leading by example. HAGWAW my WM family.
SB

Sue Bohlin

Thanks so much, Teegn. (Interesting spelling, Bet you can't find your name on a keychain kiosk at Buc-ees . . .) David praises the Lord for His strength and protection and enabling in his days as a warrior. What a marvelous template for us--to depend on the Lord in the first place, and then to thank Him for His faithful answers to prayer. "Lord, I serve the public as a first responder in Your strength and power. Thank You for protecting me and caring for Your people through me." "Lord, I trust You to love my children and care for their needs through me today. Thank You for pouring Your energy into me as I pour out my life for my family." "Lord, today I invite You to write and debug code through my mind that You gave me. Thank You for helping me stay on task and get the job done to Your glory. "Lord, it's another day of lots of driving. I ask You to manage the wheel through me, to be kind to other drivers through me, and to keep me safe from the crazies out there. I thank You for surrounding my car with Your supernatural protection on the outside and Your presence on the inside.' "Lord, I have a lot on my to-do list today but I don't want to do it in my own puny strength. I give You my must-do's and trust You to order my steps and get it all done, and I thank You that I don't have to manage a single minute of my day on my own without Your help."
JC

Jason Cromwell

I know there are people with strong communities and solid loving relationships who they can look too, but some of us God is all we have.
AL

Amy Lowther

1. Jesus is present in Psalm 18 helping readers know the Lord helps resolve distress. 2. Yes because it produces good results. 3. God is personal. God is a rock. God is a fortress. And God is a deliverer. 4. I excuse myself from busyness. Teeing - Thank you for sharing your ideas. I like your point,”David makes it abundantly clear that he is completely helpless in the face of death and his enemies: He rescued me from my strong enemy and from those who hated me, for they were too mighty for me (Psalm 18:17)”. Well said!