But I will sing of your strength, in the morning I will sing of your love; for you are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble. You are my strength, I sing praise to you; you, God, are my fortress, my God on whom I can rely.

Psalm 59:16-17

David’s life was in danger (vs 1–4). Saul was bent on destroying him and David wasn’t even safe in his own home! In a twice-repeated refrain, he compares his enemies to a pack of wild dogs: they growl, prowl, and howl (vs 6,7,14,15)! The ‘but’ of verse 8 is a crucial hinge-point: ‘But you laugh at them, Lord; you scoff at all those nations’ (v 8). In this second section of the psalm, although threats haven’t dissolved and foes remain undefeated, despair gives way to a strong note of hope. Adopting God’s perspective sends David’s confidence soaring: not only will enemy attacks fail, God’s justice will prevail. In this psalm, the knowledge that God is on the move, ever-present, in control and at work fuels David’s determination to ‘watch’ expectantly (v 9) and leads to joyful and grateful confidence that God will indeed act (vs 16,17). Hallelujah!

CLOSING PRAYER: Almighty God, you know those things that keep me awake at night, that trouble me throughout the day. I come to you, my defender and deliverer, for relief.

(A Summary from Encounter with God)