What does Psalm 62:2 mean?
ESV: He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be greatly shaken.
NIV: Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken.
NASB: He alone is my rock and my salvation, My stronghold; I will not be greatly shaken.
CSB: He alone is my rock and my salvation, my stronghold; I will never be shaken.
NLT: He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress where I will never be shaken.
KJV: He only is my rock and my salvation; he is my defence; I shall not be greatly moved.
NKJV: He only is my rock and my salvation; He is my defense; I shall not be greatly moved.
Verse Commentary:
Ancient castles were made of stone, and modern bunkers are made of concrete and other rocky substances. Even in modern construction, a foundation of solid rock is the standard of security and stability. Jesus used this metaphor in one of His more well-known teachings (Luke 6:48). David's words in this verse highlight this theme of trust in the Lord as a perfect, unchanging, immovable foundation of faith. Rather than raging in anger or wailing in despair, David's faith in God allows him to be at peace (Psalm 62:1), expecting the Lord to act at the appropriate time (Psalm 62:5).
In Psalm 27:1 David writes, "The LORD is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?" Even when faced with physical danger, he was assured of the Lord's goodness (Psalm 27:3). Because God is with the believer every step of life's journey (Hebrews 13:5), the believer can confidently say, "The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?" (Hebrews 13:6).
This sentiment is repeated almost identically later in this song (Psalm 62:6).
Verse Context:
Psalm 62:1–4 contrasts God with the foes of His people. David's confidence is expressed in quiet, assured trust in the Lord. Evil people may lie, attack, and curse, but David will turn only to God as his source of safety.
Chapter Summary:
David asserts that he places all trust and faith in the Lord God alone. Evil people may slander and attack, but the believer in God can patiently wait for justice. Whether weak or powerful, all people are subject to God's judgment. No deeds will escape the Lord's notice (Hebrews 4:13).
Chapter Context:
No specific event is associated with this psalm. It may relate to David's time as a fugitive from Saul (1 Samuel 19:1–2). It is most likely a general expression of David's faith in God's provision. Other psalms echo these themes of unjust attackers (Psalm 38:19) and God's overwhelming power (Psalm 63:2; 147:5).
Book Summary:
The book of Psalms is composed of individual songs, hymns, or poems, each of which is a ''Psalm'' in and of itself. These works contain a wide variety of themes. Some Psalms focus on praising and worshipping God. Others cry out in anguish over the pain of life. Still other Psalms look forward to the coming of the Messiah. While some Psalms are related, each has its own historical and biblical context.
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