Bible Commentaries:What does Psalm chapter 18 mean?
Chapter Context
This psalm is David's prayer to the Lord in which David praises the Lord for making him victorious over his enemies. Second Samuel 5, 8, and 10 are companion chapters, and 2 Samuel 22 provides another version of this psalm. Second Samuel 22:1 tells us David composed Psalm 18 on the day the Lord delivered him from his enemies and Saul. Second Samuel 19 reports David's victorious return to Jerusalem after David vanquished his enemies.
What does Psalm chapter 18 mean?
Psalm 18 is the fourth longest psalm in the book of Psalms. Second Samuel chapter 22 contains a nearly identical speech; the text found here may be an adapted version of David's praise, to be used for worship. The introduction refers to the fact that David made this statement as an expression of his love for God (Psalm 18:1).
The first section in David's song of praise thanks God for providing rescue. At times in David's life, he was hunted and persecuted. The imagery in this section relates those experiences to the feeling of being tied up or drowning. In response to David's prayers for help, God intervened. David evokes images of earthquakes, fire, storms, and lightning to depict the power of the Lord's intercession. The result of that rescue was David's victory and security (Psalm 18:2–19).
David credits God with rescuing him and praises the Lord for rewarding his righteousness. While not a perfect man, the pattern of David's life was to honor and obey God (1 Samuel 13:14). This part of Psalm 18 declares that David's intent was to humble himself before God. In response to those who are merciful, God shows mercy. Those who are arrogant and proud can expect to be ruined (Psalm 18:20–27).
After thanking the Lord for rescue, David turns to a celebration of his God-empowered victories (2 Samuel 22:1). Scripture certainly supports the idea that David's military success was impressive (2 Samuel 8:1–8, 14). This passage uses metaphors such as being agile as a deer, strong enough to bend a bronze bow, having a wide and clear path, and so forth. While God responded to David's pleas, those who hated God saw no help when facing destruction. As a result of this divine intervention, Israel was safe from her enemies, and many avoided war entirely by submitting to David (Psalm 18:28–45).
The psalm closes by summarizing the themes already mentioned. God is the ultimate foundation of David's life, and the reason for all his success. In response, David will praise and celebrate the Lord (Psalm 18:46–50).
