“THE PSALMIST’S SUPREME CONFIDENCE IN THE STEADFAST C HARACTER OF GOD” PSALM 61:1-8

The superscription of this blessed Psalm 61 reads, “To the chief Musician upon Neginah, A Psalm of David.” The word “neginah” means a stringed instrument; thus, this psalm can be played upon a stringed instrument. The historical occasion for Psalm 61 is unknown; however, in this psalm, David is awfully depressed but he gains confidence in the Lord as his Rock. The word of God informs us in I Corinthians 10:4 that the “Rock” is Jesus Christ, that verse reads,

“And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ.”

In verses 1-2, David expresses his feeling of being weak and he prays to the Lord for strength and safety, “Hear my cry, O God; attend unto my prayer” (v. 1). David petitions to be led to a place of safety; thus, he wanted to be led to the “Rock” that is higher than he was, “when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I” (v. 2). In times of deep trouble and distress, we need God’s steadfast protection, for Psalm 17:8 says, “Keep me under the shadow of thy wings.”

Yes, as the storms of life rage, we need God’s comfort and assurance as He grants to us His unfailing mercy, for Psalm 57:1 states, “Be merciful unto me: for my soul trusteth in thee: yea, in the shadow of thy wings will I make my refuge, until these calamities be over past.” David experienced tremendous spiritual relief in the above examples by placing his faith in the steadfast character of God. God will never abandon His saint and one can be assured of God’s presence in any situation, in that Hebrews 13:5-6 says, “I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.”

Having expressed his weakness, David declares his confidence in the steadfast character of God, his only source of protection (vv. 3-4). David knew that God was indeed a sure hiding place against his enemies as verse 3 states, “For thou hast been a shelter for me, and a strong tower from the enemy.” God’s presence is a sure place of safety for all believers! Because of the Lord’s faithful promise to him, in verse 5-7, David was confident of God’s protection in prolonging his life; thus, David’s life will be sustained by God’s love and faithfulness, “Thou wilt prolong the king’s life: and his years as many generations” (v. 6).

Because of the Lord’s faithfulness toward him, David vows to sing and to praise the Lord for His deliverance, “So will I sing praise unto thy name for ever, that I may daily perform my vows” (v.8).

May God Bless!