Psalm 62:6 - Printer Friendly

ESV: He only is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be shaken.

NIV: Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken.

NASB: He alone is my rock and my salvation, My refuge; I will not be shaken.

CSB: He alone is my rock and my salvation, my stronghold; I will not be shaken.

NLT: He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress where I will not be shaken.

KJV: He only is my rock and my salvation: he is my defence; I shall not be moved.

NKJV: He only is my rock and my salvation; He is my defense; I shall not be moved.

This verse resembles an earlier statement in the song (Psalm 62:2). Both use terms emphasizing the unshakable, firm, steady, reliable nature of God as an anchor point for faith. The most secure foundation for any building is solid rock which cannot be washed away or easily broken. Faith in God is the same: it means trust in the unchanging and omnipotent Creator (Psalm 27:1, 3; Hebrews 13:5–6). Jesus used this "rock" analogy when teaching about the wisdom of trusting in God, rather than other ideas (Luke 6:48).

In the prior comment, David denied that he could be "greatly" shaken. Here, he implies that he won't be shaken at all. This adds a sense of ever-growing calm to his words. The more a believer meditates on the fact that he is secure in Christ, the calmer he will be in the face of difficult circumstances. Jesus said no one can tear believers from His grasp (John 10:28–30). The apostle Paul reminded Colossian believers to focus on the Lord, since He was the source of their great and sure hope (Colossians 3:2). He further explains, "for you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God" (Colossians 3:3).

Psalm 62:5–8 demonstrates David's confidence in God to answer prayer. David identifies God as his source of confidence and assurance. This begins by repeating the same ideas seen in the opening lines of the psalm (Psalm 62:1–2), in slightly different words. By repeating metaphors such as "rock," David emphasizes the unshakable nature of his deep faith. He encourages others to make the same choice: trusting the Lord with sincerity.

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).

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).

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.