Old Testament
Psalms 3
Overview
Psalm 3 is a morning lament voiced by David while fleeing his rebellious son Absalom, surrounded by enemies who taunt that God will not save him. Yet David turns from counting his foes to confessing the LORD as his shield and the lifter of his head, and he testifies that he lay down, slept, and woke again because the LORD sustained him. The psalm moves from distress to bold confidence, ending in a plea for deliverance and a declaration that salvation belongs to the LORD. It models faith that sleeps in peace amid danger.
1A Psalm by David, when he fled from Absalom his son. Yahweh, how my adversaries have increased! Many are those who rise up against me.
2Many there are who say of my soul, “There is no help for him in God.” Selah.
3But you, Yahweh, are a shield around me, my glory, and the one who lifts up my head.
4I cry to Yahweh with my voice, and he answers me out of his holy hill. Selah.
5I laid myself down and slept. I awakened, for Yahweh sustains me.
6I will not be afraid of tens of thousands of people who have set themselves against me on every side.
7Arise, Yahweh! Save me, my God! For you have struck all of my enemies on the cheek bone. You have broken the teeth of the wicked.
8Salvation belongs to Yahweh. May your blessing be on your people. Selah.