Psalms 18:35
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 18:35
35 Thou hast also given me the shield of thy salvation: and thy right hand hath holden me up, and thy gentleness hath made me great.
Chapter Context
Psalms 18 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of love, faith, prayer. 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 demonstrates God's faithfulness despite human unfaithfulness. 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 18:35
35 Thou hast also given me the shield of thy salvation: and thy right hand hath holden me up, and thy gentleness hath made me great.
Analysis
God gave David the 'shield of salvation' and His right hand upheld him. Divine humility ('anavah'—or 'gentleness') made him great. This paradox—God's humility exalting David—anticipates Jesus' teaching that the way up is down (Mark 10:43-45). The Hebrew could mean God's condescension or His training David in humility. Either way, it demonstrates that greatness comes through humility, reversing worldly values.
Historical Context
David's rise from shepherd to king exemplifies God exalting the humble. God's 'condescension' to personally involve Himself in David's life made greatness possible.
Reflection
- How do you see God's 'condescension' actively working in your life?
- In what ways does embracing humility open pathways to greater usefulness?
Cross-References
- Salvation: Psalms 17:7, Deuteronomy 33:29, 2 Samuel 22:36
- Parallel theme: Psalms 28:7, Isaiah 22:3, 40:11, 2 Corinthians 10:1