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 of David, when he fled from Absalom his son. LORD, how are they increased that trouble me! many are they that rise up against me.
2Many there be which say of my soul, There is no help for him in God. Selah.
3But thou, O LORD, art a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter up of mine head.
4I cried unto the LORD with my voice, and he heard me out of his holy hill. Selah.
5I laid me down and slept; I awaked; for the LORD sustained me.
6I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people, that have set themselves against me round about.
7Arise, O LORD; save me, O my God: for thou hast smitten all mine enemies upon the cheek bone; thou hast broken the teeth of the ungodly.
8Salvation belongeth unto the LORD: thy blessing is upon thy people. Selah.