Psalms 108 - Printer Friendly

This psalm is unique in that it is directly copied from the text of two others (Psalm 57; 60). David wrote both originals—so even if he did not personally arrange Psalm 108, it is properly called "of David." The original psalms dealt with dangers and struggles, which led to resolve and the intent to maintain faith. The ending parts of those psalms, expressing confidence and expectation, are combined here in Psalm 108.

The psalm opens with a nearly word-for-word duplication of Psalm 57:7–11. David declares his unwavering loyalty and trust in the Lord. He intends to praise God with music from the very earliest part of the day. David also intends to see the Lord's praise spread among all the people of the world (Psalm 108:1–5).

The second half of the psalm is copied from Psalm 60:5–12. This expresses God's ultimate power and sovereignty. The original psalm was written when Israel was facing a war to the north and a surprise attack from the south (Psalm 60:1–5). Despite fears and doubts, David found reassurance. The Lord noted His power over the regions of Israel, as well as His intent to conquer the nation's enemies. Despite it seeming—for now—that God is not helping their armies, David trusts that the Lord will bring victory, eventually (Psalm 108:6–13).

Psalm 108:1–5 is nearly identical to Psalm 57:7–11. Here, David thanks and praises God for His loyal love. David vows to praise the Lord from the moment he wakes up using singing and musical instruments. He wants God to be exalted so that His people will triumph over their enemies.

Psalm 108:6–13 is identical to Psalm 60:6–12. In these closing verses, David expresses confidence that God will triumph over Israel's foes. The people of Israel will be given the lands which God claimed to control. The psalm closes with David's prayer for God's help and assurance of His power.

The psalmist—repeating words of David's prior psalms—first declares loyalty to the Lord. He declares that God should be worshipped by His people. Next, God's sovereign rule is celebrated. Even so, the song speaks of fears and doubts, calling on the Lord to provide aid in a dire battle. The overall sense is one of confidence and assurance in God.

This psalm combines portions of two other songs (Psalm 57:7–11; Psalm 60:5–12). Psalm 57 relates to David's attempts to evade the jealous King Saul. Psalm 60 reacts to a surprise attack from Edom. Psalm 108 borrows the conclusions of these prior messages; these emphasize a commitment to praise and honor God and to recognize His absolute rule. The psalm is "of David" because it uses his words, but this arrangement may not have been his personal doing.

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.