I will keep watch for You
This phrase reflects a posture of vigilance and expectation. In the biblical context, watchfulness is often associated with prayer and waiting on God (Matthew 26:41). The psalmist expresses a deep reliance on God, similar to a watchman waiting for the morning (Psalm 130:6). This vigilance is not passive but active, involving trust and anticipation of God's intervention. Historically, watchmen were crucial in ancient cities, tasked with alerting inhabitants of any approaching danger, symbolizing the psalmist's dependence on divine protection.

O my strength
The psalmist acknowledges God as the source of his strength, a recurring theme in the Psalms (Psalm 18:1). This recognition of God as strength implies a personal relationship and reliance on divine power rather than human ability. In the cultural context of ancient Israel, strength was often associated with military might and protection, underscoring the psalmist's trust in God's ability to deliver and protect. This phrase also typifies Christ, who is the ultimate source of strength for believers (Philippians 4:13).

because You, O God, are my fortress
The imagery of God as a fortress conveys a sense of security and refuge. In ancient times, fortresses were strongholds that provided safety from enemies, often situated on high ground for strategic advantage. This metaphor highlights God's role as a protector and defender against adversaries. The concept of God as a fortress is echoed throughout scripture (Psalm 18:2, Proverbs 18:10), emphasizing His unchanging nature and reliability. This assurance of protection is prophetic of the security found in Christ, who offers eternal refuge to those who trust in Him (Hebrews 6:18-19).

1. David
The author of the psalm, who is seeking God's protection from his enemies. This psalm is traditionally attributed to David during a time when Saul sent men to watch his house in order to kill him.

2. God
Referred to as "my strength" and "my fortress," highlighting His role as a protector and source of power for David.

3. Enemies
The adversaries of David, likely Saul's men, who are seeking to harm him. They represent the forces of evil and opposition in the life of a believer.

4. Fortress
A metaphor for God's protection and refuge, emphasizing His ability to shield and defend His people.

5. Watch
The act of vigilance and expectation, indicating David's trust and reliance on God for deliverance.God as Our Strength
Recognize that true strength comes from God, not from our own abilities or resources.

In times of trouble, rely on God's power to sustain and protect you.

Vigilance in Faith
Like David, maintain a posture of watchfulness and expectation for God's intervention in your life.

Cultivate a prayerful attitude, staying alert to God's presence and guidance.

God as Our Fortress
Trust in God's protection and refuge, especially when facing adversities or spiritual battles.

Find peace and security in knowing that God is your stronghold against any threat.

Dependence on God
Develop a habit of turning to God first in times of need, rather than relying on human solutions.

Strengthen your faith by remembering past instances of God's faithfulness and deliverance.Top 10 Lessons from Psalm 59

Is engaging in cybersex considered sinful?

Why does Psalm 59 align with David’s perspective in 1 Samuel 19:11 but omit details that might resolve historical inconsistencies in the biblical account?

How can we verify historically (Psalm 59:1) that Saul actually sent men to watch David's house, given the lack of external archaeological evidence?

What does 'Be Still and Know I Am God' mean?(9) His strength.--This gives no intelligible meaning, and Psalm 59:17 shows that the ancient versions (and some MSS.) are right in reading "my strength" (vocative). The first two words of the next verse must also be brought back to this: "My strength, on Thee let me wait. For God is my fortress, God of my grace (or mercy)," i.e., my gracious or merciful God.

Verse 9. - Because of his strength. There is no "because of" in the original, and the reading, "his strength" (עזּו), is doubtful. Several manuscripts have "my strength" (עזּי), and this reading was followed in all the ancient versions. Most modern critics prefer it, and translate, O my strength, as in ver. 17. Will I wait upon thee; rather, I will wait upon thee. For my God is my Defence; or, my High Tower (Revised Version).

Parallel Commentaries ...


I will keep watch
אֶשְׁמֹ֑רָה (’eš·mō·rāh)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect Cohortative - first person common singular
Strong's 8104: To hedge about, guard, to protect, attend to

for You,
אֵלֶ֣יךָ (’ê·le·ḵā)
Preposition | second person masculine singular
Strong's 413: Near, with, among, to

O my strength;
עֻ֭זּוֹ (‘uz·zōw)
Noun - masculine singular construct | third person masculine singular
Strong's 5797: Strength, might

for You,
כִּֽי־ (kî-)
Conjunction
Strong's 3588: A relative conjunction

O God,
אֱ֝לֹהִ֗ים (’ĕ·lō·hîm)
Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 430: gods -- the supreme God, magistrates, a superlative

are my fortress.
מִשְׂגַּבִּֽי׃ (miś·gab·bî)
Noun - masculine singular construct | first person common singular
Strong's 4869: A secure height, retreat, stronghold


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OT Poetry: Psalm 59:9 Oh my Strength I watch for you (Psalm Ps Psa.)