Psalm 60:1-12 & Psalm 61:1-8
Q.1. Psalm 60:1-12: What were the circumstances of this Psalm? Why did David feel distant from God? How did he view the surrounding nations? Under what circumstances could he prevail?
This Psalm came out of a time recorded in 2 Samuel chapter 8 involving Joab, when David was battling against many foes (Ps.60 Intro.) He felt that God was angry with him, and that Israel had been rejected (Ps.60:1-3). In reality, it had been a time of remarkable expansion of David’s influence, and a consolidation of his kingdom (2 Sam.8:8:1-15). This feeling of emptiness often besets leaders when they are fully giving out in ministry. Despite this feeling of distance from God, David remembered God’s goodness – 4 You have given a banner to those who fear You, that it may be displayed because of the truth. 5 That Your beloved may be delivered … (Ps.60:4-5). David remembered all the tribes and nations over whom God ruled. He recognised that God had plans for them all (Ps.60:6-8). He called for God’s intervention and help, since deliverance by man is in vain (Ps.60:11). He affirmed his trust in the Lord of hosts – Through God we shall do valiantly, and it is He who will tread down our adversaries (Ps.60:12). What a way to face the challenges of each new day.
Q.2. Psalm 61:1-8: What did David remember about God? Why had the Lord heard him? What was the longing of his heart? How did he want God to treat him?
David was desperate to connect with God, and that God would answer. His prayers came – from the end of the earth I will call to You when my heart is faint. Lead me to the Rock that is higher than I. For You have been a refuge for me and a tower of strength against the enemy (Ps.61:2-3). He depended upon God as his refuge and strength. He longed to feel the safety of God’s presence, as he had experienced it before (Ps.61:3-4). David’s kingship had been established with God’s help – For You have heard my vows, O God; You have given me the inheritance of those who fear Your name (Ps.61:5). Not only did David look to God to sustain his kingdom for a long time, but he also understood that – he will abide before God forever (Ps.61:7). He gave God credit for his triumphs, which had come in answer to his prayers and vows (Ps.61:8).