What is the meaning of Psalm 27:2? When the wicked came upon me “ When the wicked came upon me ” (Psalm 27:2a) sets the scene of a real assault. David is not dealing in abstractions; he remembers specific moments when godless men closed in on him. • The term “wicked” covers anyone whose life and plans oppose God’s ways (Psalm 37:12–15). • David faced such hostility repeatedly: Saul’s pursuit (1 Samuel 23:25–26) and the siege at Keilah (1 Samuel 23:1–5). • The tone echoes Psalm 18:4, where “the cords of death encompassed me,” reminding us that believers can expect genuine, hostile pressure (John 15:18–20). • Yet David’s opening words testify that he remembers these attacks in the past tense; God has already acted. to devour my flesh The wicked came “ to devour my flesh ” (Psalm 27:2b), picturing a predator closing in on prey. • Scripture often uses this imagery to describe ruthless aggression (Psalm 14:4; Micah 3:2–3). • For David, it was literal—armed men sought his life (1 Samuel 24:2)—and spiritual, for Satan “prowls around like a roaring lion” (1 Peter 5:8). • The phrase underlines how personal the attack feels; enemies do not simply want to hinder but to consume. • Even so, God keeps His servant: “He will conceal me under the cover of His tent” (Psalm 27:5). my enemies and foes stumbled and fell Instead of David being torn apart, “ my enemies and foes stumbled and fell ” (Psalm 27:2c). • God reverses the outcome—the attackers lose footing (Psalm 35:4–6). • This recalls Pharaoh’s army drowning in the sea (Exodus 14:27–28) and Goliath collapsing under a single stone (1 Samuel 17:49–50). • The verb tense again is past; David’s deliverance is a completed fact, fueling present confidence: “Though an army encamp against me, my heart will not fear” (Psalm 27:3). • Isaiah 54:17 seals the promise: “No weapon formed against you shall prosper.” summary Psalm 27:2 celebrates the Lord’s tangible rescue. Wicked people truly advanced, intent on tearing David apart, yet God caused their plans to collapse. Remembering that finished victory strengthens every believer to trust the same faithful Defender when evil presses in today. |
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