Deeper Reflection
DAVID EXPERIENCED the Lord’s deliverance from an extremely dire situation. It is believed that David wrote this psalm when he recalled being in the hands of King Achish’s men, but was later driven out from the palace as a madman (see 1 Sam 21:12-22:1). Soon after David first arrived at Gath, he was recognised and seized by the king’s men. In total desperation and fear for his life, David cried out to God and was delivered in an unexpected and miraculous manner. Recalling this episode caused David to reflect on how the righteous person is one who fears the Lord rather than man (vv.7, 9, 11). In addition, the righteous person is humble (vv.2, 6), takes refuge in God (vv.8, 22) and does what is good in God’s sight (vv.12-14); and will experience God’s presence (v.18), provision (vv.9-10) and protection (vv.4-7, 17-20). David records those wonderful truths and uplifting insights in this psalm. He calls upon the Lord’s righteous saints and servants to join in magnifying the Lord and exalting His name together (vv.1-3). About three millennia later, we as Christ’s disciples today know that we have received through faith in Christ the righteousness of God as a gift.²⁴ In our own dire situations, let us cry to God for help and depend on Him for deliverance, while at all times seeking to uphold that which is good in the sight of God out of reverent fear. As we taste and see the goodness of God, let us magnify Him through our testimonies before unbelievers and exalt His name together in the congregation of the redeemed servants of God.

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²⁴ See example, Romans 3:19-26; Ephesians 2:1-10; and Philippians 3:1-11.