Protection not Prevention: Psalm Three
Posted: Saturday, November 22, 2008
by Teresa Ortiz
Freelance writer/Speaker
Fear and circumstance are two of the many tools Satan would use to distract us from the One who loves us. This Psalm--just eight short verses, has a lot to say if we would stop and think about what King David wrote so long ago.
"LORD, how they have increased who trouble me! Many are those who rise up against me. Many are they who say of me, There is no help for him in God.' But You, O LORD, are a shield for me, My glory and the One who lifts up my head. I cried to the LORD with my voice, And He heard me from His holy hill."
I lay down and slept; I awoke, for the LORD sustained me. I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people who have set themselves against me all around. Arise, O LORD; Save me, O my God! For You have struck all my enemies on the cheekbone; You have broken the teeth of the ungodly. Salvation belongs to the LORD. Your blessing is upon Your people" Psalm 3:1-8
THE OLD TESTAMENT
It is obvious that David is distressed, discouraged, and overwhelmed--and not afraid to be honest with his Lord. Nevertheless, as we work our way through this Psalm (or prayer), we see that David does not stop here. He continues on, reminding himself of the faithfulness of God.
What is troubling David--and why? Who are these "many people" who are rising up against him?
This Psalm was written during the time he was running from his son, Absalom, who was intent on killing him. We find the story of Absalom in 2 Samuel 3:3-4 and 2 Samuel chapters 13-15. I encourage you to read it as it will give deeper meaning to this Psalm.
In summary, Absalom is David's third son from one of his many wives--this story is one that reveals the consequence of disobeying God. Just in case you were wondering, God never approved of more than one wife. Unfortunately, his people followed the cultural thing to do instead of the God thing to do.
As a result, he had half-brothers and sisters. It is recorded in chapters 13-15, how one of his half-brothers raped his sister. Naturally, this sets off a string of events that lead to Absalom seeking his father's life--Talk about a dysfunctional family! (Seriously, you must read it.)
Back to Psalm three. Shift your attention to what David says just after he acknowledges he is being pursued. "But You O LORD are a shield for me". What a powerful statement and a sense of confidence for someone who is on the run. This is where I would like to spend the rest of our time together.
THE NEW TESTAMENT
In thinking about the concept of a shield, I went to my good friend, Mr. Webster of the New World. This is what he had to say:
SHIELD = a piece of metal shaped and used as protection against blows or missiles; anything used to protect something or someone from danger, risk, or an unpleasant experience.
What a revelation! A shield does not prevent something from coming our way. It does however; protect us from what is sure to come. Remembering this, should give us the same confidence it gave David. Still, how does knowing God was David's shield relate to the New Testament and what can we learn?
For starters, let's read from Ephesians:
"Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace: and above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Eph 6:14-17
Isn't this a beautiful connection? David tells us his shield is God and the New Testament gives us details of how this shield works for those who are in Christ Jesus. It is interesting to note that as believers, we have an offensive tool to use against our enemy who seeks to destroy us spiritually--that is the word of God.
If we want to know the truth of God, if we want to be sure we are living a life that pleases him and we want to be strong against temptation, we must know God's word. Without it, we have no shield.
PUT IT ALL TOGETHER AND MAKE IT PERSONAL
For those interested in further study and a deeper connection, I offer the following:
Reread Psalm 3; 2 Samuel 13-15; 2 Timothy 2:1-13; Genesis 15:1; 2 Corinthians 4:7-15 and Psalm 91:1-6
After reading, take some time to consider the following questions and give them an honest answer.
1. What should Absalom have done to avoid bitterness from taking control of his life?
2. Why do you think he took this out on his father?
3. What do you think David means when he says that God is the lifter of his head?
4. Why do you think David was able to sleep?
5. Is there a situation in your life that is controlling you?
6. What steps have you taken, or will you take to turn your attention back to the Lord?
7. How will you use all of these passages to regain control over your life and encourage others to do the same?
CHALLENGE
Re-write Psalm 3 in your own words so it reflects your current relationship with others and the Lord.
Thank you for joining me--I look forward to your input and hope you share your findings after taking on the challenge. Until next time, continue to walk in balance.
Teresa Ortiz 2008 All rights reserved
"LORD, how they have increased who trouble me! Many are those who rise up against me. Many are they who say of me, There is no help for him in God.' But You, O LORD, are a shield for me, My glory and the One who lifts up my head. I cried to the LORD with my voice, And He heard me from His holy hill."
I lay down and slept; I awoke, for the LORD sustained me. I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people who have set themselves against me all around. Arise, O LORD; Save me, O my God! For You have struck all my enemies on the cheekbone; You have broken the teeth of the ungodly. Salvation belongs to the LORD. Your blessing is upon Your people" Psalm 3:1-8
THE OLD TESTAMENT
It is obvious that David is distressed, discouraged, and overwhelmed--and not afraid to be honest with his Lord. Nevertheless, as we work our way through this Psalm (or prayer), we see that David does not stop here. He continues on, reminding himself of the faithfulness of God.
What is troubling David--and why? Who are these "many people" who are rising up against him?
This Psalm was written during the time he was running from his son, Absalom, who was intent on killing him. We find the story of Absalom in 2 Samuel 3:3-4 and 2 Samuel chapters 13-15. I encourage you to read it as it will give deeper meaning to this Psalm.
In summary, Absalom is David's third son from one of his many wives--this story is one that reveals the consequence of disobeying God. Just in case you were wondering, God never approved of more than one wife. Unfortunately, his people followed the cultural thing to do instead of the God thing to do.
As a result, he had half-brothers and sisters. It is recorded in chapters 13-15, how one of his half-brothers raped his sister. Naturally, this sets off a string of events that lead to Absalom seeking his father's life--Talk about a dysfunctional family! (Seriously, you must read it.)
Back to Psalm three. Shift your attention to what David says just after he acknowledges he is being pursued. "But You O LORD are a shield for me". What a powerful statement and a sense of confidence for someone who is on the run. This is where I would like to spend the rest of our time together.
THE NEW TESTAMENT
In thinking about the concept of a shield, I went to my good friend, Mr. Webster of the New World. This is what he had to say:
SHIELD = a piece of metal shaped and used as protection against blows or missiles; anything used to protect something or someone from danger, risk, or an unpleasant experience.
What a revelation! A shield does not prevent something from coming our way. It does however; protect us from what is sure to come. Remembering this, should give us the same confidence it gave David. Still, how does knowing God was David's shield relate to the New Testament and what can we learn?
For starters, let's read from Ephesians:
"Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace: and above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Eph 6:14-17
Isn't this a beautiful connection? David tells us his shield is God and the New Testament gives us details of how this shield works for those who are in Christ Jesus. It is interesting to note that as believers, we have an offensive tool to use against our enemy who seeks to destroy us spiritually--that is the word of God.
If we want to know the truth of God, if we want to be sure we are living a life that pleases him and we want to be strong against temptation, we must know God's word. Without it, we have no shield.
PUT IT ALL TOGETHER AND MAKE IT PERSONAL
For those interested in further study and a deeper connection, I offer the following:
Reread Psalm 3; 2 Samuel 13-15; 2 Timothy 2:1-13; Genesis 15:1; 2 Corinthians 4:7-15 and Psalm 91:1-6
After reading, take some time to consider the following questions and give them an honest answer.
1. What should Absalom have done to avoid bitterness from taking control of his life?
2. Why do you think he took this out on his father?
3. What do you think David means when he says that God is the lifter of his head?
4. Why do you think David was able to sleep?
5. Is there a situation in your life that is controlling you?
6. What steps have you taken, or will you take to turn your attention back to the Lord?
7. How will you use all of these passages to regain control over your life and encourage others to do the same?
CHALLENGE
Re-write Psalm 3 in your own words so it reflects your current relationship with others and the Lord.
Thank you for joining me--I look forward to your input and hope you share your findings after taking on the challenge. Until next time, continue to walk in balance.
Teresa Ortiz 2008 All rights reserved
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More commentsTeresa, this was a great and inspiring article. It is easy to see why I could never have made it as a preacher. I cannot inspire with my drone-drone monotone recitals. God blees.Hi Joel, thanks for the encouragement. Each of us have different gifts, and I believe you are a gifted teacher, you explain things point by point and you do it in a humble manner leaving little room for dispute. It make make some angry, but the facts you lay out are indisputeable. We each reach people at different levels whether by challenging or encouraging or both. Keep teaching! Many of us are learning :-)
But I can spell bless correctly :o)lol! I will take God anyway I can get him! Lord blees you too ;-)
If a person is going to have a faith it ought to be personal. The last time I was active in church it was with a group known by many as the frozen chosen. There really are groups that have a personal faith, and others that have an cerebral faith.I especially liked your challenge that the readers re-write in their own way Psalm 3. I can think of no better way to understand with the heart that writing out what you read and what you believe. Well done. Peace be with you. texHi Tex, I agree completely. This is what is taught throughout the Bible. It must be a personal experience. There is no such thing as corporate faith. Although we are commanded by God to meet together with other believers so as to build eachother up in the faith. Learn from one another and help were needed. Where one is weak, the other should lift him up, if one is being haughty, the other must in humility, expose haughtiness. We need eachother in the body of Christ, but it always begins with each having a personal faith.I have been rewriting Scripture for a long time, not changing it, but putting in such a way that helps me draw closer to God. In that I have found my faith to increase, but equally important, my understanding of Scripture increases. I think if we keep the Bible stricktly theological, we will miss out on how personal God really is and we miss important lessons being taught to us.As you know, I believe theology is extremely important, but also believe that it doesn't end there, and that is what I hope readers get when they read what comes from my heart.Thanks for reading and commenting. I do hope you find rewriting Psalm three a special and personal part of healing for you.Peace to you as well. Teresa
Teresa an excellent article in troubled times. I just recently wrote to fear. I was just reading 1st Peter 12- 19 and your message is in my opinion a confirmation to all undergoing trial to standfast. Verse 12 "beloved do not be startled at the trial by fire that is taking place among you as if something strange were happening to you", etc. Yes God is speaking through you and you have come a long, long way since your first article, Blessings. Robert.Hi Robert, thank you I do pray it is a message that those who are hurting will grasp and cling to. Maybe even some who have doubted God will be reassured.Lord bless you--we are all in this together :-)
Teresa,This is a wonderful article! Not only informative, but challenging-helpful as well.Hi Ronyae, thanks! I pray you take the challenge and share your findings :-) Lord bless you!
Teresa,In this time of heightened stress, violence, pollutants, disease and hate, it is so comforting to know that we are incredibly protected - shielded - by God's love and His Word. I ache for those who do not have this peace and pray that all soon do. Your insightful and instructional words of encouragement and faith are always a welcomed addition to my day.Blessings,Star LynHi Star, good to hear from you! How are you? Thank you and I am glad you are encouraged. God's word does that to us :-)Blessings to you and Happy Thanksgiving.Teresa
I have read the stories of David and I am astonished at how much sin that God can just keep on forgiving. It says a lot for our world today--no matter how terrible our sins are, they are never too much for our loving Savior to wash away when we ask for forgiveness.Thanks for a wonderful article, Teresa.SandraYes, it is amazing! The only unforgiveable sin is rejecting Christ as the keeps one from being a child of God. His love is far reaching, but he will never force himself upon us.No one is beyond God's grace so I pray all who feel they have sinned one too many times, will cry out to God in repentance, they will not be rejected.Thanks for reading and commenting. I appreciate your loving support.Happy Thanksgiving! Teresa
Way to go Teresa!Typing is limited for this one arm bandit. It took me hours to sumbmit my last article. satan can't win and wont!Love ya,MichelleThanks Michelle! Lord bless you and continue to bring healing your way! Love and hugs, Teresa
Wow! Teresa, I believe you are an annointed by God-teacher ! You teach so clearly, simply and (cant think of the word for all encompassing ?...I had too much turkey and pie today, ; ) brain dead) anyways all enclusive.. you know, you cover alot of "it", in a nut shell...(someone help me out. ) I am Very thankful for you Teresa. Your humbleness, LOVE, and Wisdom. More importlantly your willingness to be used by God to lead others to Him, and to a better understanding of His Word. I have been Praying for you, your ministry, and comfort and peace while art is away. LORD Bless. Luv HeatherHi Heather, lol! You made me laugh with your response :-) I am glad you had your fill on Thanksgiving day!Thanks for the prayer and I am so glad this little study was beneficial for you and I hope many others.Lord bless you and your family continually! Love, Teresa
A wonderful lesson that we all need to remember as we good through our hard times! Thank yoy!Hi Walter, you are welcome. It is a message I need to remember and trust in, so I thought I would share it in these times when most of us are in the same boat.Lord bless you! Teresa
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