Bible Verse:What does Psalm chapter 62 mean?
Chapter Context
No specific event is associated with this psalm. It may relate to David's time as a fugitive from Saul (1 Samuel 19:1–2). It is most likely a general expression of David's faith in God's provision. Other psalms echo these themes of unjust attackers (Psalm 38:19) and God's overwhelming power (Psalm 63:2; 147:5).
What does Psalm chapter 62 mean?
This psalm reiterates the idea of confidence in God: that He alone is a perfect anchor point for trust and faith. No particular event in David's life is tied to this song. The song is connected to the name
Jeduthun, possibly the title of a melody. Psalms 39 and 77 also mention Jeduthun. This was also the name of a musician active in the temple during David's life (1 Chronicles 16:41–42).
Rather than being agitated, or enraged, David can be calm and spiritually relaxed, because of his trust in God. David compares the Lord to a "rock:" a symbol of perfect strength and stability (Luke 6:48). Relying on other sources of power is an uncertain risk. Because David ties his confidence to God, he expects not to be disappointed (Psalm 62:1–2).
David's enemies use lies and other attacks against him. They may seek to remove him from the throne, or simply to ruin his life and reputation. These men strike the way someone might smash into a leaning wall or a toppling fence. If the structure is weak, such attacks can destroy the defenses and leave an area open for attack. David's enemies are also two-faced, saying positive things while planning evil (Psalm 62:3–4).
Because he knows the Lord is unchanging, all-powerful, and trustworthy, David calls on others to imitate his faith. This stanza repeats descriptions of God as a stable, immovable foundation. David also reiterates that God is the source of his confidence. He encourages sincere, unreserved faith in the Lord, who acts in the best interests of His people (Psalm 62:5–8).
The psalm ends with contrast. Where God is perfectly stable and powerful, human beings and our schemes are powerless. Whether rich or poor, the influence of human lives is literally nothing next to the supremacy of the Lord. Overdependence on wealth is foolish (Luke 12:20), as is trust in human plotting (Psalm 62:9–10).
David ends by insisting that ultimate power belongs only to God. This gives the Lord both power and authority to judge all people for their choices (Revelation 20:12–13). Thankfully, God also exhibits enduring, merciful love for those who follow Him (John 3:16–18). David's relaxed confidence comes from his trust that God sees and judges all things (Psalm 62:11–12).
