Psalm 59:1-17
Q.1. What prompted David to write this song? What was his request from God? Why was David under attack? What were his enemies like? How would they be treated by God? – (Ps.59:1-8)
The measure of David was revealed when he wrote down his feelings – “when Saul sent men and they watched the house in order to kill him” (Ps.59 Intro.). Amid his vulnerability, David cried out to God for deliverance (Ps.59:1-3). He prayed with a clear conscience, because he knew that his trial was – … not for my transgression for my sin, O Lord, for no guilt of mine, they run and set themselves against me … (Ps.59:3-4). He described his enemies as being like fierce dogs. He asked God to punish them and to not extend His grace toward them. He knew that his enemies were no match for God (Ps.59:5 & 8).
Q.2. Why did David look to God for deliverance? How did he want their sins to be dealt with? Why? What made David’s approach to conflict different from others? – (Ps.59:9-17)
David had a high view of God’s kindness and strength (Ps.59:9-10). He wanted his enemies to be scattered rather than killed, so people would not forget God’s intervention (Ps.59:11-13). Mostly, he desired – that men may know that God rules in Jacob to the ends of the earth (Ps.59:13). His enemies overlooked God’s purposes. By contrast, David could say – 16 But as for me, I shall sing of Your strength; Yes, I shall joyfully sing of Your lovingkindness in the morning, for You have been my stronghold and a refuge in the day of my distress. 17 O my strength, I will sing praises to You; For God is my stronghold, the [x]God who shows me lovingkindness (Ps.59:16-17). Throughout these tests, David knew the Lord to be full of tender mercy, and that he could count on God to come through with the promises He had made to him.