A Prayer for Deliverance

(1) Lord, how are they increased that trouble me! Many are they that rise up against me.
(2) Many there be which say of my soul, There is no help for him in God. Selah.
(3) But thou, O LORD, art a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter up of mine head.
(4) I cried unto the LORD with my voice, and he heard me out of his holy hill. Selah.
(5) I laid me down and slept; I awaked; for the LORD sustained me.
(6) I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people, that have set themselves against me round about.
(7) Arise, O LORD; save me, O my God: for thou hast smitten all mine enemies upon the cheek bone; thou hast broken the teeth of the ungodly.
(8) Salvation belongeth unto the LORD: thy blessing is upon thy people. Selah.
--Psalm 3 KJV Bible

The Hebrew word "selah" is used in thirty-nine of the psalms, including this one. The word is thought to be a musical notation to the choir director and musicians. It loosely translates as a break in the song or an instruction to pause and reflect, perhaps with a musical interlude. Some translators suggest the phrase "stop and listen." Others say that a more concise translation would be "let those with eyes see and with ears hear." The word "selah" has been compared to the word "amen" in that it stresses to the listener the importance of the preceding passage.

This psalm is a lament of David. He is fighting against Absalom, his third son, who rebelled against David's rule. At this point in the struggle, Absalom and his forces are winning and David is fleeing for his life.

In verses 1 and 2 David cries to God, complaining of the growing number of enemies which surround him, including his very own son. Then, in verse 3, David remembers what God has done for him in the past, how God has protected him. God has been faithful and David is encouraged by this.

In Verses 4 through 6 David praises God for delivering him thus far in his life. David affirms his trust in God's protection.

In verses 7 through 8 David cries to God again, but this time it is with the confidence that God is able to deliver him. David asks God for further victory.

O God, help me to remember that even in my most difficult times You are with me. You have always been with me, and You wait for me to ask for Your protection, Your deliverance, and Your victory.

-

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