The next twelve psalms (3-14) generally belong to the category of psalms of deliverance and praise. The NIV Study Bible notes suggest a 5+1+5+1 pattern. Psalms 3-7 are followed by Psalm 8, a creation psalm which declares the glory of God. Psalm 8 is also recognized as a Messianic psalm with a clear reference to Christ as the one through whom God’s glory ultimately comes to human beings. Five more psalms or prayers of deliverance and praise (9-13) are followed by Psalm 14, a description of the folly of humanity when God’s glory is refused.
Reading: Psalm 3:1-8
It is no small thing to pray with confidence. In this psalm, David finds assurance in God in the face of enemies. The psalm likely refers to David’s flight during the rebellion of Absalom. God is a shield who gives his people glory. (Note how this foreshadows Psalm 8 which caps the subsection.) God answers the cries of his children. The Psalmist rests in peace in his dependence on God. God delivers because God desires to bless his creation.
May we today pray with confidence about whatever difficulties and challenges we confront. God is on his throne, orchestrating the affairs of this world, listening to our prayers, protecting his children, guiding and directing into his glory. Deliverance comes from God, in God’s ways and in God’s time.
Prayer
Dear God, this day I want to know the confidence reflected in this psalm. Teach me to depend on you, to accept your glory as you bring it into my life, and to await your deliverance from the difficulties I experience. I declare that you are my God, in all of your splendor and majesty. Show me the way and help me walk in it faithfully, in Jesus’ name, Amen.