Categories: Psalms

Psalm 18

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Psalm 18 Commentary

by Brad Boyles

There are some things which can only be learned over time. God’s faithfulness is one particular characteristic that cannot be understood outside of the ups and downs of life. The psalm here in chapter 18 is one that teaches us the wisdom that comes from running a marathon of faith. Appropriately, this psalm was one of the last David penned though it was placed relatively early within the entire book. It serves as the epitome of the life of David, a man after God’s own heart.

The brilliance of a personal relationship with God can be found in reflecting on the adventures with Him. Though the struggles of life may seem to overcome us, God’s hand is active in deliverance. He never ceases to show us His magnificent glory. He revels in bringing the humble to life and exposing the proud in their folly. The more we experience His faithfulness in our lives, the more we develop a gritty perseverance that rests on the assurance of His promises. However, even when we think we’ve figured Him out, He goes and does something even more miraculous that stretches our faith beyond its limits. This is the God of David. This is our God.

David’s victories were small precursors to the eternal victory of the Messianic Savior. By proclaiming these victories (literally singing them), the poets were calling all nations to bow down in humility with rock-solid faith. The deliverance of David from his enemies mirrors God’s deliverance of Jesus from His.

He gives great deliverance to His king, And shows lovingkindness to His anointed, To David and his descendants forever.

Psalms 18:50 NASB

Both David and Jesus suffered great distress from those who hated and persecuted them. Both were delivered. However, as we read here at the end of this psalm, it would be David who was “tipping his hat” to THE Anointed descendant who would eventually come from his line – Jesus the Christ. All the promises outlined in this psalm served as a foreshadowing of what was to come for the King of the Jews. All of the Israelites who read this psalm in exile would be encouraged that their pain and suffering would not last forever. The kingdom was coming. Their Savior was on the horizon.

Where do you need to be encouraged today by the fact that God is faithful? He always delivers. He never fails. He is full of grace and truth and worthy of our trust. For the one who seeks wisdom, let him soak in the Proverbs. But, for the one who seeks holiness, let him pour over the Psalms.

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