Psalm 59


Psalm 59 is another one of the "Do Not Destroy" psalms (Psalms 57, 58, 59, and 75).  This psalm refers to the circumstances described in 1 Samuel 19:11, when David's life was in danger from the men sent to his house by Saul to watch him.  David prays for deliverance and protection.  His enemies are portrayed as a pack of howling dogs prowling around at night, but David is confident that he will be singing praises in the morning because of God's strength and steadfast love as his fortress and refuge.

Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm:

  • Verses 1-5
    • David's enemies strive against him for no transgression or fault of his.  What do these verses show us about what we can do when others turn against us unjustly or for no good reason?  (focus on verses 1-2 and the end of verse 4)  
    • In verse 4, David is asking God to "awake" (or take action) to help him in his individual circumstances; but in verse 5, when He considers Who God is (i.e., "LORD God of hosts, God of Israel"), he broadens his perspective and also prays that God would take action to help the nation of Israel corporately.  What are some Names of God that can help remind us of how big and great our God is? 
  • Verses 6-10
    • How does the contrast between the descriptions of David's enemies in vv. 6-7 and the descriptions of God in vv. 8-10 give us encouragement when facing enemies or the Enemy?
    • Verse 7 describes the words out of the mouth like swords.  What does this tell me about the power of words?
  • Verses 11-13
    • What do the phrases "lest my people forget" (v. 11) and "that they may know that God rules" indicate about some of the purposes for "imprecatory prayers" or prayers for God's justice against the wicked?
  • Verses 14-17
    • What does the contrast between the evening (vv. 14-15) and the morning (vv. 16-17) show me?
    • In these verses and throughout the psalm, names of God are referenced (e.g., God, LORD, God of hosts, God of Israel, Strength, or Lord); and words such as strength, steadfast love, fortress, and refuge are repeated.  Which of these stand out as reminders, to help me through any challenges I may currently be facing?


If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following is a link to a YouTube video: 

  • "Deliver Me" (Psalm 59) by Bob Carlisle from "David, Ordinary Man, Extraordinary God" album:  Link

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