Psalms 62 - Printer Friendly

What does Psalms 62 mean?

Chapter Commentary:

This psalm reiterates the idea of confidence in God: that He alone is a perfect anchor point for trust and faith. No particular event in David's life is tied to this song. The song is connected to the name Jeduthun, possibly the title of a melody. Psalms 39 and 77 also mention Jeduthun. This was also the name of a musician active in the temple during David's life (1 Chronicles 16:41–42).

Rather than being agitated, or enraged, David can be calm and spiritually relaxed, because of his trust in God. David compares the Lord to a "rock:" a symbol of perfect strength and stability (Luke 6:48). Relying on other sources of power is an uncertain risk. Because David ties his confidence to God, he expects not to be disappointed (Psalm 62:1–2).

David's enemies use lies and other attacks against him. They may seek to remove him from the throne, or simply to ruin his life and reputation. These men strike the way someone might smash into a leaning wall or a toppling fence. If the structure is weak, such attacks can destroy the defenses and leave an area open for attack. David's enemies are also two-faced, saying positive things while planning evil (Psalm 62:3–4).

Because he knows the Lord is unchanging, all-powerful, and trustworthy, David calls on others to imitate his faith. This stanza repeats descriptions of God as a stable, immovable foundation. David also reiterates that God is the source of his confidence. He encourages sincere, unreserved faith in the Lord, who acts in the best interests of His people (Psalm 62:5–8).

The psalm ends with contrast. Where God is perfectly stable and powerful, human beings and our schemes are powerless. Whether rich or poor, the influence of human lives is literally nothing next to the supremacy of the Lord. Overdependence on wealth is foolish (Luke 12:20), as is trust in human plotting (Psalm 62:9–10).

David ends by insisting that ultimate power belongs only to God. This gives the Lord both power and authority to judge all people for their choices (Revelation 20:12–13). Thankfully, God also exhibits enduring, merciful love for those who follow Him (John 3:16–18). David's relaxed confidence comes from his trust that God sees and judges all things (Psalm 62:11–12).

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.

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.

Psalm 62:9–12 closes this song with a contrast. Prior verses highlighted the sure, eternal, unshakable nature of the Lord God. This passage emphasizes human mortality and the futility of defying His will. God possesses power, loyal love, and the prerogative to judge every man through His perfect understanding.

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).

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.

Accessed 5/7/2024 3:30:07 PM