What does Psalm 3:8 mean?
David concludes this psalm by declaring that salvation belongs to the Lord. That understanding enables him to express confidence in the Lord to deliver him from his enemies, and he ascribes all the credit to the Lord. Although David refers to deliverance from his enemies (2 Samuel 17:1–4; 15–16) as "salvation," here, Scripture teaches that eternal salvation from sin and perdition also belongs exclusively to the Lord. God saves by grace; that is, undeserved favor. Ephesians 2:8–9 teaches: "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast." Romans 6:23 also teaches us that salvation is a gift from God. This verse states, "For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord."David pronounces a benediction as he closes Psalm 3. He prays that the Lord's blessing will rest upon His people. This benediction reveals David's shepherd heart. He thinks about and prays for the well-being of the people of Israel despite his difficult personal circumstances.
Psalm 3:7–8 ends David's prayer with a specific plea and an expression of confidence. David was surrounded by many foes, sent to kill him by his own son, Absalom (2 Samuel 15—18). Yet David recognized the Lord was on his side and would deliver him. He knew that salvation belongs to the Lord. The Lord would eventually answer David's prayer by delivering him from this desperate situation (2 Samuel 18:31–32).
David cries out to the Lord while being pursued by many enemies. Others are telling him the situation is hopeless, that he cannot be delivered from his trouble. However, David testifies that the Lord is his shield and deliverer. He says the Lord answered him from the site of Mount Zion. This answer to prayer led to a good night's sleep and confidence that he had nothing to fear from his many foes. He closes the psalm by declaring that the Lord had slain his enemies in the past and would do so again. The Lord would strike down David's enemies with crushing blows to the head. He knew the Lord delivers those who trust in Him, so he asks the Lord to bless His people.
