Psalm 54 (1 Sam. 23:14-29)

We have included the reading from 1 Samuel because the story that is behind this Psalm provides such an encouragement for those in a similar situation.  David was essentially betrayed or may have felt ganged up on by the Ziphites.  He was hiding in their area and so they went to tell King Saul.  In the meantime God did two wonderful things to deliver David.  First He encouraged him by a visit from his beloved friend Jonathan.  Then, when Saul was close to David (they were on opposite sides of a mountain) God brought news to Saul of problems with the Philistines so he had to go fight a more important battle.  According to the title David prayed this prayer when the Ziphites had gone to tell Saul of his whereabouts.

With that in mind, consider this short prayer.

·         54:1-3: the request.  David asks to be vindicated.  In other words he has a strong standing before God.  He has not actually caused Saul any trouble but has been helpful to Saul.  In addition it is God who chose David to succeed Saul as King.  Furthermore, David had not abused the Ziphites in any way.  He calls them strangers, indicating he had little contact with them.  Perhaps you have been in this type of situation, betrayed by those around you, people who have no reason to be against you.

·         54:4-5: the object of faith.  David’s confidence is in God.  When we come in prayer we must have a confidence that will not leave us ashamed.  If we trust in our money or influence or friends or education we will eventually be ashamed.  Our trust must be in an Object that is always reliable.  Like David we need to say, “God is my helper.”

·         54:6-7: the exercise of faith.  David’s confidence in God brings confidence in the moment.  He is at rest, no longer worried about the situation.  His promise to worship God fits his faith.  In v7 he may be referring to past deliverance, although it sounds more like he sees the current problem as already solved.  Confidence in God does that for believers.

Be encouraged today as you face life’s trials, especially those involving people around us.  Be anxious for nothing but in everything by prayer and supplication let us bring every situation to God; and His peace will guard our hearts (Phil. 4:6-7).   Cast all your care upon Him, for He cares for you (1 Pt. 5:7).