January 14 - Psalm 3-5
For the devotion today, I want to focus on Psalm 3. It’s a short Psalm, so you might want to read it again. Psalm 3 was written during one of the most difficult periods of David’s life. His own son, Absalom, had risen up against him. Many of his friends and allies deserted him. His throne was in jeopardy. He was literally running for his life. Yet, in the midst of all the chaos, David looked to God and didn’t fall into despair. He turned to God with honesty, prayer, and hope. Psalm 3 teaches us how to face overwhelming circumstances by fixing our eyes on God.
David faced his situation with complete honesty. He was fully aware of the difficult place that he found himself in. His enemies were many and growing in number day-by-day. He was surrounded by negative voices who said, “God won’t deliver you this time.” Sometimes when we face a difficult circumstance, the voices around us will speak words of discouragement. Satan will certainly try to discourage us. Satan loves to whisper words of discouragement and accusation when we are in trouble.
Don’t be surprised when trials come, and don’t be shaken when others try to discourage you or ridicule you for trusting in God and standing on His Word. We must remember that being a Christian does not exempt us from trouble. In fact, Jesus warned, “In the world you will have tribulation” (John 16:33). Look at what the apostle Peter wrote in 1 Peter 4:12 “Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you.”
Psalm 3:3-4 But You, O LORD, are a shield for me, My glory and the One who lifts up my head. 4 I cried to the LORD with my voice, And He heard me from His holy hill.
In the midst of fear and mockery, David looks to God and exalts Him for His protection and salvation. God is a shield. Not just in front of us, but all around us. God is our glory. Our identity and worth does not rest in titles, wealth, or how others see us. Our hope is God’s glory in us. God lifts our head. Fear and trouble bow us down. Shame hangs our head low. But God lifts up our head. When troubles multiply, let your prayers multiply.
After David praised and prayed and looked to God, he was able to lie down and sleep. This is a picture of absolute trust and assurance. David could rest because he knew God was watching over him. I also think about Daniel in the lion’s den. He could sleep among the hungry lions because God shut their mouths. When God is your shield and defense, fear loses its grip.
Then comes the climatic declaration: “Salvation belongs to the LORD.” Victory is not found in armies, strategies, or human wisdom. Salvation comes from God!