What does Psalm 57:3 mean?

David was confident God would reach down from heaven and rescue him from Saul (1 Samuel 19:1–2; 22:1; 24:2–3). Further, he was assured God would work against David's enemies. This anticipation of God's work demonstrates David's deep faith. Even faced with great fear (Psalm 55:4–6), David chose God as the anchor for his hope (Psalm 57:1–2). He relies on the "steadfast love" of God. This comes from the important Hebrew word checed, which represents the Lord's reliable, dependable care for His people.

David anticipates God's loyal love and faithfulness reaching him. Though hated by Saul, an earthly king, David was greatly loved by God Most High, the heavenly King. Early in life, God indicated His special purposes for David (1 Samuel 16:11–13). This gave David tremendous confidence, knowing the Lord had greater plans for him. Later, God would offer more explicit prophecies about David's throne and his descendants (2 Samuel 7:12–16).

In every situation the believer can count on the fact that God loves him and keeps His promises. God's loyal love caused the apostle John to exclaim, "See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are" (1 John 3:1). It was God's faithfulness that caused Paul to rejoice "in hope of eternal life, which God, who never lies, promised before the ages began" (Titus 1:2).

This verse also uses the term selah, which seems to indicate a pause or moment of reflection.