This psalm is the only one ascribed to David in Book III of the Psalms. Familiar Davidic themes run through it. We may wonder, How many times does David need to cry out to God? How often is his life threatened? And how does he manage to get himself in such messes? Some scholars believe that the Hebrew people found this psalm particularly signi cant when they were in exile; for centu- ries it has found its way onto the lips of the faithful.
Whether in times of war or dif cult circumstance, personal trouble or ill health, this psalm captures the depth of feeling that accompanies the person whose back is against the wall, that moment when only God can make a difference. I nd it inter- esting to explore the form of the psalm. The petitioner begins by crying out to God, begging God to come near and hear, reminding God of her/his devotion and absolute faith and trust in God’s goodness. In this sense, it has the feel of coming into a royal court, showing absolute respect to the Lord who alone can help. Only God’s power can save.
The psalm serves as a timely reminder of the respect God deserves. Though we often speak of our relationship with God like we are intimate friends, in times of trouble we become painfully aware of our smallness and the need for God to be God—great, majestic, omnipotent. God is creator and we are creature; though we sometimes like to think otherwise, it is good to remember that reality. I don’t mean to imply that God is aloof and disinterested and needs our groveling adoration. God remains as near as the breath we breathe and more willing to be with us than we can imagine. “For you, O LOrD, are good and forgiving, abounding in steadfast love to all who call on you.” No matter the circumstance, we can turn to and trust in God.