Psalms 3

Psalm 3#sn Psalm 3. The psalmist acknowledges that he is confronted by many enemies (vv. 1-2). But, alluding to a divine oracle he has received (vv. 4-5), he affirms his confidence in God’s ability to protect him (vv. 3, 6) and requests that God make his promise a reality (vv. 7-8).

A psalm of David, written when he fled from his son Absalom.#sn According to Jewish tradition, David offered this prayer when he was forced to flee from Jerusalem during his son Absalom’s attempted coup (see 2 Sam 15:13-17).

1Lord, how numerous are my enemies! Many attack me.

2Many say about me, “God will not deliver him.” (Selah)

3But you, Lord, are a shield that protects me; you are my glory and the one who restores me.

4To the Lord I cried out, and he answered me from his holy hill. (Selah)

5I rested and slept; I awoke, for the Lord protects me.

6I am not afraid of the multitude of people who attack me from all directions.

7Rise up, Lord! Deliver me, my God! Yes, you will strike all my enemies on the jaw; you will break the teeth of the wicked.

8The Lord delivers; you show favor to your people. (Selah)