They confronted me in my day of calamity
This phrase reflects a time of intense distress and adversity faced by the psalmist, traditionally identified as David. The "day of calamity" can be understood as a period of severe trial or danger, possibly referring to the numerous challenges David faced, such as Saul's pursuit or battles with surrounding nations. Biblically, calamity often signifies divine testing or the presence of evil forces. The confrontation suggests an aggressive opposition, which can be seen in the broader context of spiritual warfare, as described in Ephesians 6:12, where believers are reminded of the struggle against spiritual forces of evil. Historically, David's life was marked by numerous confrontations, both physical and spiritual, which are documented in the books of Samuel and Chronicles.

but the LORD was my support
This phrase highlights the divine intervention and sustenance provided by God during times of trouble. The term "support" implies a foundation or a source of strength, akin to a rock or fortress, which is a recurring theme in the Psalms (e.g., Psalm 18:2). This reliance on God as a support is a central tenet of faith, emphasizing trust in God's sovereignty and protection. Theologically, it points to the covenant relationship between God and His people, where God promises to be their protector and deliverer. This concept is echoed in the New Testament, where Jesus Christ is seen as the ultimate support and cornerstone for believers (1 Peter 2:6). The assurance of God's support is a source of comfort and hope, encouraging believers to trust in God's unfailing presence and aid during their own times of calamity.

1. David
The author of Psalm 18, David is reflecting on his experiences of being pursued by his enemies and how God delivered him. This psalm is a song of gratitude for God's protection and support.

2. Enemies
The adversaries who confronted David during his times of distress. These could be literal enemies like King Saul or metaphorical ones representing trials and tribulations.

3. Day of Calamity
A period of great distress or trouble in David's life. This could refer to specific events such as Saul's pursuit of David or other times of personal crisis.

4. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, emphasizing His faithfulness and personal relationship with His people. In this verse, God is depicted as David's support and deliverer.

5. Support
The Hebrew word used here is "mishen," which means a support or stay, indicating God's role as a stabilizing force in times of trouble.God as Our Support
Just as God was David's support during his trials, He remains our steadfast support today. We can rely on Him in our own "days of calamity."

Facing Adversity with Faith
David's example teaches us to face our adversities with faith, trusting that God will uphold us even when others confront us.

The Reality of Trials
The presence of enemies and calamities is a reality for believers. However, these challenges are opportunities to experience God's faithfulness and deliverance.

Personal Relationship with God
The use of "the LORD" emphasizes a personal relationship. We are encouraged to cultivate a deep, personal connection with God, who is our support.

Gratitude for Deliverance
Like David, we should express gratitude for God's deliverance and support, recognizing His hand in our lives during difficult times.(18) Prevented.--Better, fell upon me unawares. See this use of the verb, generally however used in a good sense, in Psalm 18:5.

Verse 18. - They prevented me in the day of my calamity (comp. 1 Samuel 23:13-15; 1 Samuel 24:1-3; 1 Samuel 26:1-4, etc.). But the Lord was my Stay. God frustrated all the designs of David's foes, and prevented him from falling into their hands.

Parallel Commentaries ...


They confronted me
יְקַדְּמ֥וּנִי (yə·qad·də·mū·nî)
Verb - Piel - Imperfect - third person masculine plural | first person common singular
Strong's 6923: To project, precede, to anticipate, hasten, meet

in my day
בְיוֹם־ (ḇə·yō·wm-)
Preposition-b | Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 3117: A day

of calamity,
אֵידִ֑י (’ê·ḏî)
Noun - masculine singular construct | first person common singular
Strong's 343: Oppression, misfortune, ruin

but the LORD
יְהוָ֖ה (Yah·weh)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3068: LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israel

was
וַֽיְהִי־ (way·hî-)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 1961: To fall out, come to pass, become, be

my support.
לְמִשְׁעָ֣ן (lə·miš·‘ān)
Preposition-l | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 4937: A support, a protector, sustenance


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OT Poetry: Psalm 18:18 They came on me in the day (Psalm Ps Psa.)