Psalm 61

Several of the commentators believe David wrote this psalm when he was fleeing from Saul. However the text itself records no such information (cf. v. 6a).

David strengthened himself in the Lord when he felt faint and inadequate by remembering his Rock and by relying on His promises.

 1. Request for salvation 61:1-2

David began this psalm as he did many others by asking God to give attention to his prayer. He evidently felt separated from his own people and his secure surroundings on this occasion. The rock he requested may have been a literal butte on which he could take refuge such as Masada. On the other hand he may have been speaking figuratively of God (cf. Deut. 32:4, 15, 18, 30, 31, 37; 2 Sam. 22:2; Ps. 18:31, 46; 28:1; et al.).

 2. Confidence in God 61:3-7

61:3-4 David's desire for God's protection rested on the Lord's previous provisions of deliverance for him. God had proved to be his refuge and tower of strength. Now the psalmist longed to dwell in the Lord's tent or tabernacle and to enjoy the protection of His wings as though he were a baby chick or bird (cf. 17:8; 36:7; 57:1; 63:7; 91:4).

61:5-7 David knew God had heard his prayer. The inheritance of those who fear God's name was prosperity under the promises of the Mosaic Covenant (Deut. 29:9). These promises included long life and abiding in God's presence. David asked God to deal with him in loyal love and truth so that he would indeed endure through his present trial.

 3. Promise of praise 61:8

When God would deliver him, David would praise God with song and continue to pay his vowed offerings regularly in the future.

Believers can confidently petition God for deliverance on the basis of His promises and His former faithfulness. These resources can give strength when we feel vulnerable and alone.