Psalm Chapter 3 is traditionally attributed to David while he was fleeing from his son Absalom (circa 970 BC), an event recorded in 2 Samuel 15-17. During this tumultuous time, Absalom usurped his father’s throne, forcing David to flee Jerusalem in fear for his life. Despite facing betrayal and despair, David begins this psalm by crying out to God about the multitude of enemies rising against him, confidently turning his lament into a prayer of trust: “But You, O LORD, are a shield about me, My glory, and the One who lifts my head” (Psalm 3:3).

David’s words highlight a central truth about God’s nature—He is both protector and sustainer. As David recalls his flight from Jerusalem, he remarks on his trust that the LORD keeps him safe even as he sleeps: “I lay down and slept; I awoke, for the LORD sustains me” (Psalm 3:5). Historically, many kings would likely take pride in their military might or alliances, but the experiences of David remind us that genuine security comes from God. Even when surrounded by formidable opposition, David insists that he will not fear and puts his hope in God’s deliverance (Psalm 3:6).

The psalm closes with a call for divine intervention and a declaration that “Salvation belongs to the LORD; Your blessing be upon Your people!” (Psalm 3:8). In the larger context of the Book of Psalms, Psalm 3 demonstrates the pattern of honest lament coupled with resolute faith—David openly voices his distress but also magnifies God’s power to deliver. This helps believers understand that, like David, they can pour out their fears and hopes to God, knowing He is the ultimate source of protection.

In the greater narrative of the Bible, the notion that the LORD alone brings salvation foreshadows the New Testament promise of redemption through Jesus (Luke 2:30). David’s reliance on God’s intervention models the believer’s posture of dependence on Christ for deliverance from sin and all manner of trials. Psalm 3, therefore, resonates beyond its historical setting, offering timeless comfort and reminding us that God’s sustaining grace is available in every life circumstance.