4-26-07 Psalms 18:1

Psalms 18:1 (NIVUS)
(For the director of music. Of David the servant of the LORD. He sang to the LORD the words of this song when the LORD delivered him from the hand of all his enemies and from the hand of Saul.)
He said: I love you, O LORD, my strength.


Psalms 18:1(NLT)
(For the choir director: A psalm of David, the servant of the LORD. He sang this song to the LORD on the day the LORD rescued him from all his enemies and from Saul.)
I love you, LORD; you are my strength.

Psalms 18:1 (NRSV)
I love you, O LORD, my strength.

David, Israel' second king, was beloved of the Lord God; he, however, referred to himself as Jehovah's servant. He saw himself as working and laboring for God, but he was also a worshiper of the Most High. Through his psalms, poems that he set to music, David declared the words of the Lord. Since he was in communion with his God, he was able to speak Adonai's commandments and promises with authority, for he knew the heart of God.

David marked special events with psalms. In this one, he is expressing his gratitude and praise to Jehovah for His delivering power in stripping away David's enemies. The Lord set David free and set him in a wide open place, where he was safe. God's hand shielded him from those who wanted to smite him with deadly intent. When King Saul rose up in power against David, Jehovah the Lord was faithful to rescue and protect him. Even when Saul laid false charges and demands on him, David could rely on God's word. Therefore, David loved the Lord God with great affection and friendship. David clung to and delighted in Adonai. His desire was set on the Almighty, for he knew that his strength and power only came from God. In Him, David was established and fortified, so that he could prevail.

Therefore, when you are being pursued by enemies who appear more powerful than you, you should choose to love God. Like David, you should not hold back your affection for the Lord. As you cling to and delight in Adonai, you too will be rescued and delivered.