[284 words]
David wrote Psalm 59 while he was holed up in a house and Saul’s men were waiting outside to get the opportunity to kill him. We can only imagine the tense situation and what all David was going through. He begins the Psalm with a plea to God: “Deliver me from my enemies, O my God.” He then mentions how they are workers of iniquity (v.3), lie in wait for Him (v.3), and growl like dogs (v.6).
But then David mentions two phrases that start the same, but reveal two different things that He did. In verse 9, He states, “O my Strength, I will watch for you” and then in verse 17 he proclaims “O my Strength, I will sing praises to you” (both renderings from the ESV). David knew that God had the power to deliver him and would at the right time. And until that moment came, David would be patient and use his time to praise God.
What a great example for us. We often find ourselves in situations where we would like to be delivered, but it is obvious that it will not come for some time. Following David’s example, we should trust in God and wait patiently for Him. But also we should spend time in praising God. He is God, He is good, He knows what’s best for us, and He will do His work at the proper time. That’s what David did and he was delivered. That’s what Paul and Silas did while in prison waiting to be freed (Acts 16:23-26). And that’s what we should do. Rather than brooding or giving up on God, try a little more patience and praise.
Edd Sterchi
Broadway church of Christ
Campbellsville, KY