Studying Psalm 54

>>Background

David is fleeing from Saul after the Ziphites, the inhibitants of Ziph, a town in the Judean hill country, informs Saul of David’s hiding place. Saul finally catches up with David on the same mountain, but just as Saul and his forces are closing in, a messenger informs Saul of the attack by the Philistines and Saul breaks off his pursuit of David to go meet the Philistines.

>>Observation
What are some common themes that you can pick out?

1. The psalmist is crying out in desperation, yet he seems very sure of God’s ability to help him. (vs1-2)
- Save me… by Your name
- Vindicate me… by Your power

2. Those that he considers his enemies, are those that have not set God before them.

3. There are 3 parts to the Psalm
a. The cry for help (vs1-3)
b. A celebration of trust (vs4-5)
c. The vow and thanksgiving (vs 6-7)

4. God will deliver us from ALL trouble. Not halfway, not partially, but TOTALLY.

>>Interpretation

The psalm begins with David’s plea to God. However, he is quick to celebrate the help that comes from God, instead of dwelling on the seriousness of his trouble. (vs4 – Behold God is my helper) It is a triumphant cry of God’s deliverance, maybe even before he is delivered. It is no wonder he is called a man after God’s heart. He does not doubt God, even in desperate situations. He knows God to be his helper, who will never fail to deliver him.

David ends the Psalm with a spirit of thanksgiving, pouring out from his grateful heart. He is able to give thanks willingly as he knows that God will surely deliver him completely.

>>Application

Subject:
How to experience God’s deliverance in times of trouble.

Complements:
1. Cry out to Him (vs1-3)
2. Proclaim his deliverance from all trouble (vs4-5)
3. Give thanks for his faithfulness (vs6-7)

Theme Verse:
Verse 7 “For He has delivered me from all trouble, And my eye has looked with satisfaction upon my enemies.

How many times have we seen the deliverance of God in our lives, yet we are stingy with giving unto Him? Determine today to have a heart that is willing to give unto God. Is there an area of your life that you find difficult to give up? Remember that God is more than deserving. We can give thanks to Him because He WILL deliver us from ALL trouble.

Resources (Joshua Teo's notes)
1. The New Century Bible Commentary (A. A. Anderson)
2. Treasury of David (Charles Spurgeon)
3. John Wesley’s Notes on the Bible