Psalms 18:3
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 18:3
3 I will call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies.
Chapter Context
Psalms 18 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of truth, obedience, love. Written during various periods (c. 1000-400 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Temple worship utilized these compositions across various periods of Israel's history.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-50: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Psalms and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Psalms 18:3
3 I will call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies.
Analysis
David calls on Yahweh who is 'worthy to be praised' and finds salvation from enemies. The Hebrew 'halal' (praised) means to boast or celebrate loudly. Calling on God in faith results in deliverance. This pattern—invocation, trust, salvation—appears throughout Scripture and anticipates Romans 10:13: 'everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.' Reformed theology sees effectual calling as God drawing us to cry out.
Historical Context
Written after experiencing multiple deliverances from mortal danger, establishing a pattern of prayer and divine rescue that built David's faith.
Reflection
- How consistently do you call on God when facing threats or difficulties?
- What past deliverances strengthen your confidence to call on Him now?
Word Studies
- Save: יָשַׁע (Yasha) H3467 - To save, deliver, rescue
Cross-References
- Resurrection: Psalms 96:4, 145:3, Nehemiah 9:5
- Salvation: Psalms 55:16, 2 Samuel 22:4, Luke 1:71
- References Lord: Revelation 4:11
- Parallel theme: Psalms 50:15, 62:8, 91:15