An Evening Call for Help

Psalm 3 is a morning prayer, followed by Psalm 4 in the evening. They both appear to relate to David’s flight from Absalom (2 Sam. 15). The psalm falls into three parts. In verses 1 and 2 the psalmist, who is in great distress, calls to God to hear his prayer and bring relief. This desperate man knows that God is righteous and just and protects his people, so he puts his trust in God’s mercy and deliverance. Then in verses 3-5 he addresses his foes calmly, knowing that, though they have slandered and humiliated him, he is faithful to God and innocent of evil. He pleads with them to search their hearts, cease from sin and offer genuine sacrifices. This could well be David’s appeal to his much-loved, headstrong son Absalom and his followers, who were living a sham and needed to repent. Absalom had gone to Hebron ostensibly to worship, offer sacrifice and fulfill a vow–and instead was proclaiming himself king. Finally, in verses 6-8 this man places his security in God’s hands, confident that God’s favor will return to him and his people, bringing great joy. In this assurance he is able to sleep peacefully.

As we have followed Paul’s trials and journeys we may be certain that he also would have prayed for God’s intervention in his distress. He certainly courteously proclaimed to his opponents the good news of Jesus’ death, conquering evil and sin, and pleaded with them to change their ways. Secure in God’s hands he experienced peace and joy in spite of his chains (Phil. 1:12-14, 18). While our lives are very different to those of these men, in our trials we can turn to our Lord, who enables us to face opponents with love and concern for their spiritual well-being, and then trusting in his faithfulness we will know his peace that passes understanding.

“The peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Phil. 4:7). How has this truth been real for you?