What does Psalm 61:3 mean?
This affirms that a large part of David's prayer (Psalm 61:1–2) is for the Lord to provide protection and reassurance. David recalls times past when God was the source of his confidence and the power behind his victory (Proverbs 18:10). Those occasions persuaded David that God would never fail him (2 Samuel 8:6).David displayed this same confidence when he volunteered to fight the giant Goliath. Having been empowered to defeat large predators, he was confident he could kill the Philistine champion (1 Samuel 17:37). The apostle Paul demonstrated similar confidence in the Lord. Through his many dangerous travels, Paul saw evidence of God's power to provide safety so His followers could complete His will (2 Corinthians 1:9–10).
Psalm 61:1–4 is David's prayer for safety during a time of uncertainty. He feels his courage draining and speaks as if he is far from home. His appeal includes references to secure, high places, fortified areas, and sanctuary. David repeats a common metaphor about God protecting His people the way a mother hen guards chicks with outstretched wings (Psalm 17:8; 63:7).
David prays as someone displaced from home and wracked with fear. He asks to be led to safety, recalling God's former protection. David appeals to his personal faithfulness towards the Lord. He asks for his kingship to be protected, echoing the promises God made about David's reign (2 Samuel 7:9–13). Anticipating that rescue, David promises to praise the Lord.
