Psalms
Chapter 3
2
Lord, You Are My Shield and My Glory
O Lord, how great in number are my foes! How numerous are they who rise against me!
3
How many are they who say of my soul: “There is no help for him in God!”
4
But you are my shield, O Lord,my glory; you lift up my head.
5
Aloud I cry to the Lord,and from his holy Hill he answers me.
6
If I lie down to sleep,again I awake, for the Lord supports me;
7
no fear of the thousands standing against me.
8
Arise, O Lord!Deliver me, O my God!You strike all my enemies on the jaw,you have broken the teeth of the wicked.
9
Salvation comes from the Lord.May your blessing be upon your people!
Commentaries
3
The ‘enemies’ constantly undermine the psalmist’s trust in God. The psalmist views their political or personal hostility as a test of his confidence in the shield that protects him. Even though the psalmist and we have different enemies, we share a common goal: to keep the communication lines open between God and ourselves. Challenges from outside us and struggles within are not inherently bad; they are simply tests, opportunities, or urgent invitations to turn to the only place where help can be found.
The psalm holds Christian significance in the context of Jesus’ encouragement: “Do not be afraid. I have conquered the world” (Jn 16:33). Despite the challenges he faces, the Christian, with steadfast faith in God, will ultimately succeed. This enables believers to face contemporary challenges with confidence.