God You Are Our Help
1.Lord, how are they increased that trouble me! many are they that rise up against me.
2.Many there be which say of my soul, There is no help for him in God. Selah.
3.But thou, O Lord, art a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter up of mine head.
4.I cried unto the Lord with my voice, and he heard me out of his holy hill. Selah.
5.I laid me down and slept; I awaked; for the Lord sustained me.
6.I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people, that have set themselves against me round about.
7.Arise, 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.
8.Salvation belongeth unto the Lord: thy blessing is upon thy people. Selah – Psalm 3:1-8 (KJV)
Heartfelt Commentary
Psalm 3 is a powerful testament to God’s unwavering protection and the deep faith that King David had in His divine care. This psalm is traditionally believed to have been written by David during the time he fled from his son Absalom, who had rebelled against him. Despite the immense pressure and the numerous enemies surrounding him, David’s faith in God remains unshaken.
Verses 1-2: A Cry for Help
David begins by acknowledging the overwhelming number of adversaries rising against him. These enemies doubt God’s ability to save him, but David’s plea reflects his deep distress and yet his unwavering belief in God’s deliverance.
- Supporting Scripture: “In my distress I called upon the Lord, and cried unto my God: he heard my voice out of his temple, and my cry came before him, even into his ears.” (Psalm 18:6)
Verses 3-4: God as Protector
David proclaims God as his shield, his glory, and the lifter of his head. Despite the circumstances, he has complete trust in God’s protection and sustenance. He cries out to the Lord, who answers him from His holy hill, signifying God’s readiness to hear and respond to His people.
- Supporting Scripture: “The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him.” (Psalm 28:7)
Verses 5-6: Peace Amidst Turmoil
David speaks of the peace he experiences even in the face of great danger. He is able to lie down and sleep, waking again because the Lord sustains him. His fearlessness in the face of overwhelming odds is a testament to his deep faith in God’s protection.
- Supporting Scripture: “I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, Lord, only makest me dwell in safety.” (Psalm 4:8)
Verses 7-8: Assurance of Salvation
David calls upon the Lord to arise and deliver him, expressing confidence in God’s ability to defeat his enemies. He ends the psalm with a declaration that salvation belongs to the Lord and a blessing upon His people.
- Supporting Scripture: “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?” (Psalm 27:1)
Moral Takeaways
- Trust in God’s Protection: Even in the face of overwhelming adversity, trusting in God’s protection can bring peace and confidence.
- Persistent Prayer: Like David, we should continuously cry out to God, knowing that He hears and answers our prayers.
- Fearlessness Through Faith: Faith in God’s ability to save us removes fear, no matter the circumstances.
Reflective Questions
- How do I respond to overwhelming challenges in my life? Do I turn to God in prayer?
- What are the “enemies” in my life that make me feel besieged? How can I trust God more to protect me against them?
- In what ways can I experience and cultivate peace, even amidst turmoil?
Biblical Views Then and Now
In David’s time, the concept of God as a shield and protector was rooted in the tangible realities of battles and wars. Today, while the context may differ, the metaphor remains powerful. We face spiritual, emotional, and mental battles, and the assurance of God’s protection continues to offer profound comfort and strength.
Serving God with Love and Honor
Serving God means placing our complete trust in Him, just as David did. It means acknowledging His presence in our lives, seeking His guidance in times of trouble, and resting in the peace that only He can provide. Our service to God is not just in our actions, but also in our faith and reliance on Him.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we thank You for being our shield and protector. Help us to trust in You completely, even when we face overwhelming challenges. Lift our heads and sustain us with Your peace. Guide us to serve You with faith and love, and to find strength in Your presence. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Scripture to Ponder
“Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the Lord thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.” (Deuteronomy 31:6)
May this reflection on Psalm 3 deepen your faith and bring you closer to the heart of God, knowing that He is always with you, protecting and guiding you.