Scripture Reference: Psalms 27-28

It’s not totally understood the occasion in which David wrote these psalms, but these two Psalms express confidence in the Lord’s salvation and justice as David’s enemies harass him. These two Psalms are very similar to the previous Psalm 26. They ultimately refer to worship in the Lord’s sanctuary, express dependence on the Lord and trust in His deliverance. Additionally, these two share a literary connection. The structure of Psalm 28 is the opposite of Psalm 27. This is like a mirrored reflection of each other and is a common technique found in the Psalms. Psalm 27 begins with David confidently praising God followed by David’s lament; then Psalm 28 begins with David’s lament followed by his praising of God as his savior.

The 27^th Psalm commences with a declaration of David’s confidence in the Lord as he asserts that the Lord is his “light,” “salvation,” and “strength of [his] life.” As David’s light, the Lord vanquishes the powers of darkness, as David’s salvation the Lord is his deliverer, and as David’s strength and shield, the Lord is his guardian. How can David be afraid of his enemies when the Lord is his protector? The Lord who has rescued David from enemies with violent intent in the past will surely defend him now and in the future. No matter how colossal the enemy threat may be, David will be confident because of his God.

Therefore, David expresses but one longing: “[to] dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life.” David articulates that this has been his desire and it will continue to be his desire. Why? David yearns to gaze on “the beauty of the Lord,” to witness the wonders he performs for His people. Also, David wishes to seek the Lord’s instruction and guidance. Moreover, David recognizes no place is more secure for him. Being in the Lord’s sanctuary positively affects David’s perspective. There he knows the Lord will conceal him from his enemies and set him on a high rock where his enemies cannot reach him. In his secure position, David anticipates looking down at his distant enemies and vows to worship the Lord with loud songs of joy and praise.

In continuing verses, David’s tone changes as he cries out to God to hear his voice and deliver him from his adversaries. The emphasis is on the Lord’s “face.” David’s innermost longing is to seek God’s face. To seek the Lord’s face is to seek His presence and the grace of God that comes with His presence. As David indicated, being in God’s presence gives David a right perspective on his situation. We also need to remember that while it is true that God is always present with His people, believers sometimes have difficulty recognizing God’s presence because of their fallen nature or difficult circumstances. David realized God has been his “Helper” and that he would be doomed without God. Nonetheless, in his anguish, David knows the Lord cares for him. Therefore, because of his adversaries David asks the Lord to show him what is right and lead him to do what is right. David also asks the Lord to deliver him from his enemies who lie about him and seek to harm him.

David concludes Psalm 27 with a declaration of his confidence in the Lord. He is convinced of God’s goodness and that he will experience His salvation. Hence, with strength and courage, he is determined to wait on the Lord who will not disappoint him.

To Be Continued

Unless otherwise noted, Scripture taken from the New King James Version®, NKJV © 1982 by Thomas Nelson.
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