A Psalm of David, when he fled from his son Absalom.
This introduction provides the historical context for the psalm. David, the second king of Israel, faced a rebellion led by his son Absalom, as recorded in 2 Samuel 15-18. This was a time of great personal and political turmoil for David. The rebellion forced David to flee Jerusalem, highlighting the fragility of human power and the consequences of familial discord. This context underscores themes of betrayal and the need for divine intervention. The psalm reflects David's reliance on God during a crisis, a recurring theme in his life and writings.

O LORD, how my foes have increased!
David addresses God directly, emphasizing a personal relationship with the divine. The increase in foes refers to the growing number of people siding with Absalom, illustrating the widespread nature of the rebellion. This phrase captures the sense of being overwhelmed by adversaries, a common experience for believers facing spiritual or physical battles. The lamentation is a call for God's attention and intervention, echoing the cries of other biblical figures who faced overwhelming odds, such as Moses and Elijah.

How many rise up against me!
This phrase emphasizes the magnitude of the opposition. The rebellion was not just a personal betrayal but a national crisis, with many Israelites turning against their anointed king. The imagery of rising up suggests an active and aggressive stance by the enemies, reflecting the spiritual battles believers face against forces that oppose God's will. This connects to the broader biblical theme of spiritual warfare, as seen in Ephesians 6:12, where believers are reminded that their struggle is not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces.

Many say of me
This phrase reflects the psalmist's awareness of the opinions and judgments of others. In the context of Psalm 3, David is fleeing from his son Absalom, who has usurped the throne. The phrase indicates the widespread belief among David's adversaries that he is beyond help. This sentiment is echoed in 2 Samuel 16:8, where Shimei curses David, suggesting that God has abandoned him. The phrase highlights the isolation and vulnerability David feels, a common theme in the Psalms where the righteous are often surrounded by those who doubt God's presence and power.

“God will not deliver him.”
This statement is a direct challenge to David's faith and trust in God. It reflects a common belief in the ancient Near East that a person's misfortune was a sign of divine abandonment. Theologically, this phrase tests the covenant relationship between God and David, as God had promised to establish David's throne forever (2 Samuel 7:16). The doubt expressed here contrasts with the assurance found in other scriptures, such as Psalm 34:17, which affirms that the Lord delivers the righteous from all their troubles. This phrase also foreshadows the mockery Jesus faced on the cross, as recorded in Matthew 27:43, where onlookers doubted God's deliverance.

Selah
The term "Selah" is often found in the Psalms and is thought to be a musical or liturgical marker, possibly indicating a pause for reflection or a musical interlude. Its exact meaning is uncertain, but it serves to emphasize the preceding statement, inviting the reader or listener to contemplate the gravity of the situation. In the context of Psalm 3, "Selah" encourages a moment of reflection on the dire circumstances David faces and the challenge to his faith, prompting the audience to consider their own trust in God's deliverance amidst adversity.

But You, O LORD, are a shield around me
This phrase emphasizes God's protection, likening Him to a shield that surrounds the believer. In ancient warfare, a shield was a crucial piece of armor, providing defense against enemy attacks. The imagery here suggests comprehensive protection, not just from the front but all around, indicating God's omnipresence and omnipotence. This concept of God as a shield is echoed in other scriptures, such as Genesis 15:1, where God tells Abram, "Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your very great reward." The use of "LORD" (YHWH) signifies the covenantal name of God, highlighting His faithfulness and personal relationship with His people.

my glory
In this context, "glory" refers to honor and dignity. David, the psalmist, acknowledges that his true honor comes from God, not from his status as king or his accomplishments. This reflects a deep humility and recognition that any glory he possesses is derived from his relationship with God. The term "glory" is often associated with God's presence and majesty, as seen in Exodus 33:18-22, where Moses asks to see God's glory. For believers, this phrase underscores the idea that their worth and identity are found in God alone.

and the One who lifts my head
The lifting of the head is a metaphor for restoration and encouragement. In ancient Near Eastern culture, a bowed head symbolized defeat, shame, or mourning, while a lifted head signified victory, confidence, and renewed hope. By stating that God is the one who lifts his head, David expresses trust in God's ability to restore him from his current troubles and to vindicate him. This imagery is consistent with other biblical passages, such as Psalm 27:6, where David declares, "Then my head will be exalted above the enemies who surround me." It also points to the hope of resurrection and ultimate redemption found in Christ, who lifts the heads of all who trust in Him.

To the LORD I cry aloud
This phrase emphasizes the act of vocal prayer, a common practice in ancient Israel. Crying aloud to God signifies earnestness and desperation, reflecting a deep reliance on divine intervention. The act of crying out is seen throughout the Psalms and is a model for believers to express their needs and emotions to God. This practice is rooted in the belief that God is personal and attentive to the cries of His people, as seen in Exodus 2:23-25 when the Israelites cried out under Egyptian bondage.

and He answers me
This assurance of divine response highlights God's faithfulness and willingness to engage with His people. The certainty of God's answer is a recurring theme in Scripture, reinforcing the idea that God is not distant or indifferent. This reflects the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where God promises to hear and respond to His people's prayers, as seen in 2 Chronicles 7:14. It also prefigures the New Testament teaching that God hears the prayers of believers through Jesus Christ (John 14:13-14).

from His holy mountain
The "holy mountain" refers to Mount Zion, the location of the Temple in Jerusalem, which was considered the dwelling place of God among His people. This geographical reference underscores the centrality of Jerusalem in Israel's worship and the belief that God's presence was uniquely manifest there. The mountain symbolizes God's sovereignty and holiness, and it is a place of divine revelation and blessing. This imagery is echoed in Hebrews 12:22, where believers are said to come to the "heavenly Jerusalem."

Selah
The term "Selah" is often understood as a musical or liturgical pause, inviting the reader or listener to reflect on the preceding words. It serves as a moment to meditate on the truth and significance of God's responsiveness and presence. While its exact meaning is debated, it consistently appears in the Psalms to encourage contemplation and deeper understanding of the text.

I lie down and sleep;
This phrase reflects a deep trust in God amidst adversity. In the context of Psalm 3, David is fleeing from his son Absalom, who has usurped the throne. Despite the chaos and danger surrounding him, David finds peace and rest, illustrating a profound faith in God's protection. This trust in God for safety during sleep is echoed in other scriptures, such as Psalm 4:8, where David again expresses confidence in God's ability to provide peace and security. The act of lying down and sleeping signifies a relinquishing of control, acknowledging that God is sovereign over all circumstances.

I wake again,
Waking up is portrayed as an act of divine grace and protection. In the ancient Near Eastern context, sleep was often seen as a vulnerable state, where one was defenseless against enemies or natural threats. David's ability to wake up safely is attributed to God's providence. This reflects a broader biblical theme where life and breath are gifts from God, as seen in Job 33:4 and Acts 17:25. The daily renewal of life upon waking is a reminder of God's continual care and faithfulness.

for the LORD sustains me.
The sustaining power of the LORD is central to this phrase. The Hebrew word for "sustain" implies support, provision, and upholding. This is not just physical sustenance but also spiritual and emotional support. Throughout the Bible, God is depicted as the sustainer of life, as seen in Nehemiah 9:21, where God provided for the Israelites in the wilderness. This sustaining power is ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who sustains all things by His powerful word (Hebrews 1:3). David's confidence in God's sustenance is a testament to his relationship with God, trusting Him to provide all that is necessary for life and godliness.

I will not fear
This phrase reflects a deep trust in God, a recurring theme throughout the Psalms. The psalmist, traditionally identified as David, expresses confidence in God's protection despite overwhelming odds. This echoes the sentiment found in Psalm 23:4, where the psalmist declares fearlessness even in the "valley of the shadow of death." The absence of fear is a hallmark of faith, as seen in Hebrews 11, which highlights the faith of biblical figures who trusted God against all odds.

the myriads
The term "myriads" suggests an innumerable host, often used to describe large armies or groups. In the context of David's life, this could refer to the numerous enemies he faced, such as during Absalom's rebellion (2 Samuel 15-18). The use of "myriads" emphasizes the overwhelming nature of the opposition, yet it also highlights God's ability to protect and deliver, as seen in 2 Kings 6:16-17, where Elisha reassures his servant of God's greater army.

set against me
This phrase indicates a deliberate and organized opposition. Historically, David faced many adversaries, including Saul, the Philistines, and his own son Absalom. The idea of being "set against" suggests a siege or encirclement, a common military tactic in ancient warfare. This imagery is also used in Ephesians 6:12, where believers are reminded of the spiritual forces arrayed against them, necessitating the armor of God.

on every side
The phrase "on every side" conveys a sense of being completely surrounded, leaving no avenue for escape. This mirrors situations in David's life, such as when he was pursued by Saul (1 Samuel 23:26). It also reflects the broader biblical theme of God's deliverance in seemingly hopeless situations, as seen in Exodus 14:13-14, where the Israelites were trapped by the Red Sea. This phrase underscores the totality of the threat and the completeness of God's protection.

Arise, O LORD!
This phrase is a call for divine intervention, reflecting a common theme in the Psalms where the psalmist seeks God's active presence in times of distress. The term "Arise" is often used in the Old Testament to signify God taking action on behalf of His people, as seen in Numbers 10:35 when Moses would say, "Rise up, O LORD!" This invocation suggests urgency and a deep reliance on God's power to change circumstances.

Save me, O my God!
The plea for salvation underscores the personal relationship between the psalmist and God, emphasizing trust and dependence. The use of "my God" indicates a covenant relationship, echoing the promises made to the patriarchs and the nation of Israel. This cry for deliverance is a recurring motif in the Psalms, reflecting the belief that God is a refuge and deliverer, as seen in Psalm 18:2.

Strike all my enemies on the jaw;
This imagery of striking the enemies on the jaw is a metaphor for rendering them powerless and humiliated. In ancient Near Eastern culture, a blow to the face was a sign of disgrace and defeat. This reflects the psalmist's desire for God to not only protect him but also to vindicate him by subduing his adversaries. The language is reminiscent of God's judgment against the wicked, as seen in prophetic literature.

break the teeth of the wicked.
Breaking the teeth symbolizes the destruction of the wicked's power and ability to harm. In biblical times, teeth were often associated with strength and ferocity, as seen in descriptions of predatory animals. This phrase suggests a complete dismantling of the wicked's capacity to oppress. It also foreshadows the ultimate defeat of evil, aligning with the eschatological hope found in Revelation 19:11-21, where Christ triumphs over His enemies.

Salvation belongs to the LORD;
This phrase emphasizes the belief that deliverance and rescue are solely the work of God. In the context of Psalm 3, David is fleeing from his son Absalom, and he acknowledges that only God can save him from his dire situation. This reflects a broader biblical theme that salvation is not achieved through human effort but is a divine gift. The Hebrew word for salvation, "yeshuah," is closely related to the name Yeshua (Jesus), pointing to the ultimate salvation through Christ. This concept is echoed in Jonah 2:9, where Jonah declares, "Salvation comes from the LORD," and in Revelation 7:10, where the multitude in heaven cries out, "Salvation belongs to our God."

may Your blessing be on Your people.
David's prayer for God's blessing on His people reflects a communal aspect of faith, where the well-being of the community is intertwined with individual petitions. This blessing is not merely material but encompasses spiritual prosperity and divine favor. The idea of God's blessing is rooted in the Abrahamic covenant (Genesis 12:2-3), where God promises to bless Abraham and his descendants. It also connects to the priestly blessing in Numbers 6:24-26, where the LORD's face shining upon His people signifies His grace and peace. In the New Testament, this blessing is fulfilled in Christ, who brings spiritual blessings to believers (Ephesians 1:3).

Selah
The term "Selah" is often found in the Psalms and is thought to be a musical or liturgical pause, inviting the reader or listener to reflect on the preceding words. It serves as a moment to meditate on the truth just expressed, allowing it to resonate deeply. In the context of Psalm 3, it encourages contemplation on the sovereignty of God in salvation and His blessing upon His people. While its exact meaning is uncertain, "Selah" underscores the importance of pausing to consider the weight and significance of divine truths.