Psalms 3 - 5

Hear Me, O Lord

These three Psalms move from the introductory tone of the first two to the chaotic disorientation of daily life and the reliance the believer must have on God.  We are beset by many enemies (spiritual evil influences) constantly stating that God cannot save and protect.  Yet David knows the Lord is a shield and protector utterly destroying the enemy (Psalm 3). In the midst of enemies of every side, we can lay down and sleep (v.5) because the Lords watches over us.

Psalm 4 is a lamentation with a prayer to God to rescue David.  He rebukes his enemies and expresses confidence in the Lord for deliverance (4:2-3).  Verse 4 exhorts the believer to not "sin by letter anger control you. Think about it overnight and remain silent."  This was demonstrated by our Lord Jesus when he was mocked by the high priest and the Romans and yet remained silent.  Verse 8 repeats the the idea expressed in 3:5, "In peace will I lie down and sleep, for you alone Lord keep me safe."  The idea of resting in Christ is there for the Christian believer.

Psalm 5 is a morning prayer.  David expresses God's greatness (v.1-3). He reaffirms that God cannot dwell with wickedness and will destroy all evil (v. 4-6). David asks for guidance by the Holy Spirit  (v.7-8) and acknowledges that his enemies, while present, are driven away by the presence of God.  The prayer ends with an expression of joy for the graceful protection of the Lord, "O Lord you surround them with your shield of love."

These Psalms, like all the Psalms reveal the wisdom of God through the experience of man with God.

May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.