Introduction
Historical Context is 2 Samuel 15-18. David is forced to leave his palace in Jerusalem because his son, Absalom, has amassed a huge rebellion to oppose David.
Abandonment, vv. 1-2
A. David’s own friends joined the rebellion, 2 Samuel 15:13.
B. Shimei, a relative of King Saul, cursed David as he fled Jerusalem, 2 Samuel 16:7-8.
Confidence, vv. 3-4
A. The Lord was David’s shield.
B. The Lord was David’s glory.
C. The Lord was still enthroned on His holy hill.
Assurance, vv. 5-6
A. David could rest in God.
B. David knew the truth: “If God be for us, who can be against us?” Romans 8:31.
Prayer, vv. 7-8
A. “Arise, O Lord” was a military prayer for God to defend Israel and lead them to victory, Numbers 10:35.
B. “Save me, O my God”: knowing what God had done gives David confidence in what the Lord will do.
C. “Salvation belongeth unto the Lord”: in a time of personal calamity, David was concerned for all of God’s people.