Psalms 18:17
He delivered me from my strong enemy, and from them which hated me: for they were too strong for me.
Original Language Analysis
יַצִּילֵ֗נִי
He delivered
H5337
יַצִּילֵ֗נִי
He delivered
Strong's:
H5337
Word #:
1 of 7
to snatch away, whether in a good or a bad sense
כִּֽי
H3588
כִּֽי
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
5 of 7
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
Cross References
Psalms 142:6Attend unto my cry; for I am brought very low: deliver me from my persecutors; for they are stronger than I.Psalms 35:10All my bones shall say, LORD, who is like unto thee, which deliverest the poor from him that is too strong for him, yea, the poor and the needy from him that spoileth him?Job 16:9He teareth me in his wrath, who hateth me: he gnasheth upon me with his teeth; mine enemy sharpeneth his eyes upon me.Psalms 38:19But mine enemies are lively, and they are strong: and they that hate me wrongfully are multiplied.
Historical Context
Reflects David's experience with Saul and surrounding nations whose military power far exceeded his own resources, requiring divine deliverance.
Questions for Reflection
- In what areas do you try to face enemies too strong for you alone?
- How does acknowledging your weakness lead to dependence on God?
Analysis & Commentary
God delivered David from his 'strong enemy' and those who hated him, for they were 'too mighty' for him. The Hebrew 'chalats' (deliver) means to rescue or snatch away. Acknowledging enemies were 'too mighty' admits human inability, requiring divine intervention. This anticipates believers' confession that apart from Christ we can do nothing (John 15:5). Reformed theology's sola gratia affirms that God alone saves.