This psalm was written when King David was fleeing Jerusalem after his son Absalom rebelled. In verses 1-2, David was stung with betrayal. Many predicted that David would surely lose his kingdom. But in verses 3-4, David declared that God is his Shield, and God would hear him from his holy hill. David did not rely on his army or past successes, but on God’s glory to be revealed. When we face rebellion, betrayal, and doubters, we need to lift our heads, declare by faith that God is our Shield, reveal his glory, and believe he hears us.

In verses 5-6, David proclaims that he can sleep, because God sustains him. He can rise from his bed and walk on, because God sustains him. Though tens of thousands pursue him, God sustains him. How unshakeable David’s faith was in God’s love and protection! Lastly, in verses 7-8, David declares the battle cry and trusts in God to give him victory for the nation and the people to be blessed. David was a shepherd king to the end, even when those he loved betrayed him.
Application: Father, thank you for hearing my calls for help and being my Shield. Please help me to trust your love and reveal your glory.
One Word: The Lord shields me for his glory