Tyndale Open Study NotesPsalms 3

• A psalmist is the writer or speaker of a psalm. The psalmist here faces many enemies. Those enemies speak boldly and without respect (Psalm 4:6; 12:4; 40:15). They question whether the Lord can really save him (10:11; 22:7–8; 71:10). Their words trouble the psalmist because it seems the Lord will not answer his prayer.

• These enemies hold great power (compare Psalm 2:1–3). Unlike Psalm 2, this psalm does not resolve the crisis.

This group of psalms moves from an orderly world to a troubled one. Psalms 1–2 describe stability. The righteous person is blessed, and the Lord’s anointed king rules with authority.

In the psalms that follow, the tone changes. The Lord’s anointed cries out for help. He faces enemies, strong opposition, and evil plans.

It even seems at times that the Lord is far away. The psalmist feels confusion and distress instead of confidence and calm.

This psalm expresses sorrow that the hopes from Psalms 1–2 have not been fulfilled. Even when surrounded by enemies, godly people should not doubt the Lord's just actions. Instead, they can trust in God's goodness and expect God to rescue them.

This difficult time in David’s life (see 2 Samuel 15–18) helps readers understand the promises of Psalm 2 better. The Lord gave victory to his chosen king (Psalm 2), but God controlled how and when this victory happened.

The psalmist looks away from his enemies and focuses on the Lord.

The psalmist compares his enemies' arguments (Psalm 3:2) with the Lord’s help. The Lord acts as a shield for his people, turning their defeat and shame into victory and glory.

By focusing on the Lord (Psalm 3:3–4) during his crisis, the psalmist can rest, confident in his safety (see study note on Psalm 4:8). The Lord cares for his servant. God protects him and keeps his mind and heart free from fear (Psalms 37:17; 54:4; 119:116; 145:14).

The psalmist feels peaceful and confident because the Lord protects and cares for him. This shields him from evil and gives him a new understanding of reality (Psalm 23:4; 27:1, 3; 46:1; 56:4, 11; 91:5–6; 118:6).

• The psalmist does not seek revenge. Instead, he waits for the Lord to take vengeance.

• Arise: The psalmist asks the Lord to act now.