I will not fear the myriads set against me on every side. I will not fearThis phrase reflects a deep trust in God, a recurring theme throughout the Psalms. The psalmist, traditionally identified as David, expresses confidence in God's protection despite overwhelming odds. This echoes the sentiment found in Psalm 23:4, where the psalmist declares fearlessness even in the "valley of the shadow of death." The absence of fear is a hallmark of faith, as seen in Hebrews 11, which highlights the faith of biblical figures who trusted God against all odds. the myriads
The term "myriads" suggests an innumerable host, often used to describe large armies or groups. In the context of David's life, this could refer to the numerous enemies he faced, such as during Absalom's rebellion (2 Samuel 15-18). The use of "myriads" emphasizes the overwhelming nature of the opposition, yet it also highlights God's ability to protect and deliver, as seen in 2 Kings 6:16-17, where Elisha reassures his servant of God's greater army. set against me
This phrase indicates a deliberate and organized opposition. Historically, David faced many adversaries, including Saul, the Philistines, and his own son Absalom. The idea of being "set against" suggests a siege or encirclement, a common military tactic in ancient warfare. This imagery is also used in Ephesians 6:12, where believers are reminded of the spiritual forces arrayed against them, necessitating the armor of God. on every side
The phrase "on every side" conveys a sense of being completely surrounded, leaving no avenue for escape. This mirrors situations in David's life, such as when he was pursued by Saul (1 Samuel 23:26). It also reflects the broader biblical theme of God's deliverance in seemingly hopeless situations, as seen in Exodus 14:13-14, where the Israelites were trapped by the Red Sea. This phrase underscores the totality of the threat and the completeness of God's protection. Persons / Places / Events 1. DavidThe author of Psalm 3, David is fleeing from his son Absalom, who has led a rebellion against him. This context of personal betrayal and national crisis forms the backdrop of the psalm. 2. AbsalomDavid's son, who has conspired to overthrow his father and take the throne of Israel. His rebellion is a significant event in David's life, causing him to flee Jerusalem. 3. JerusalemThe city from which David flees during Absalom's rebellion. It is the political and spiritual center of Israel. 4. The MyriadsRefers to the numerous enemies or adversaries that David perceives as surrounding him. This term emphasizes the overwhelming odds against him. 5. GodThe ultimate protector and source of David's confidence, despite the overwhelming opposition he faces. Teaching Points Trust in God's ProtectionDespite overwhelming odds, David's trust in God is unwavering. Believers are encouraged to place their confidence in God's protection, regardless of the challenges they face. Fearlessness in FaithDavid's declaration of fearlessness serves as a model for Christians to live boldly in faith, knowing that God is greater than any adversary. The Power of PrayerDavid's psalm is a prayerful expression of trust. Christians are reminded of the importance of prayer in seeking God's help and expressing reliance on Him. God's Sovereignty in TrialsThe psalm highlights God's sovereignty over all circumstances. Believers can find comfort in knowing that God is in control, even when life seems chaotic. Community SupportWhile David faced his enemies, he was not alone. The support of loyal followers reminds Christians of the importance of community and fellowship in times of trial. Bible Study Questions 1. How does understanding the historical context of Absalom's rebellion enhance your interpretation of Psalm 3:6? 2. In what ways can you apply David's example of fearlessness in your own life when facing overwhelming challenges? 3. How does the assurance of God's protection in Psalm 3:6 compare to the promises found in Romans 8:31? 4. What role does prayer play in developing a fearless faith, as demonstrated by David in this psalm? 5. How can the support of a Christian community help you remain steadfast in faith during difficult times, similar to David's experience? Connections to Other Scriptures Psalm 27:3This verse echoes the theme of confidence in God despite being surrounded by enemies, reinforcing the idea of divine protection. 2 Samuel 15-18These chapters provide the historical context of Absalom's rebellion, offering insight into the events that led to the writing of Psalm 3. Philippians 4:6-7Paul speaks about the peace of God that surpasses understanding, which parallels David's peace and lack of fear despite his circumstances. Romans 8:31This verse speaks to the assurance that if God is for us, no one can be against us, aligning with David's confidence in God's protection. People Absalom, David, PsalmistPlaces JerusalemTopics Afraid, Drawn, Fear, Myriads, Putting, Round, Sides, Ten, Tens, Themselves, Though, Thousand, ThousandsDictionary of Bible Themes Psalm 3:6 8107 assurance, and life of faith
8754 fear Psalm 3:1-8 5087 David, reign of
8618 prayerfulness Psalm 3:3-6 8215 confidence, results Psalm 3:5-6 5511 safety Library Table of the Books of Holy Scripture According to Date.
HISTORICAL BOOKS. PROPHETIC AND POETICAL BOOKS. B.C. 4004 1689 Genesis 1529 Job Psalm lxxxviii. by Heman, the Ezrahite, (See 1 Chron. ii. 6) 1491 Exodus 1491 Leviticus 1451 Numbers Psalm xc. and (perhaps) xci 1450 Deuteronomy 1451 1427 Joshua 1312 Ruth 1120 Judges 1171 1056 1 Samuel Psalms, certainly vii, xi, xvi, xvii, xxii, xxxi, xxxiv, lvi, liv, lii, cix, xxxv, lvii, lviii, cxliii, cxl, cxli, and many more 1056 1 Chronicles Psalms, certainly ii, vi, ix, xx, 1023 Psalms …
Charlotte Mary Yonge—The Chosen PeopleThe History of the Psalter
[Sidenote: Nature of the Psalter] Corresponding to the book of Proverbs, itself a select library containing Israel's best gnomic literature, is the Psalter, the compendium of the nation's lyrical songs and hymns and prayers. It is the record of the soul experiences of the race. Its language is that of the heart, and its thoughts of common interest to worshipful humanity. It reflects almost every phase of religious feeling: penitence, doubt, remorse, confession, fear, faith, hope, adoration, and …
Charles Foster Kent—The Origin & Permanent Value of the Old Testament Rules to be Observed in Singing of Psalms.
1. Beware of singing divine psalms for an ordinary recreation, as do men of impure spirits, who sing holy psalms intermingled with profane ballads: They are God's word: take them not in thy mouth in vain. 2. Remember to sing David's psalms with David's spirit (Matt. xxii. 43.) 3. Practise St. Paul's rule--"I will sing with the spirit, but I will sing with the understanding also." (1 Cor. xiv. 15.) 4. As you sing uncover your heads (1 Cor. xi. 4), and behave yourselves in comely reverence as in the …
Lewis Bayly—The Practice of Piety The Godly are in Some Sense Already Blessed
I proceed now to the second aphorism or conclusion, that the godly are in some sense already blessed. The saints are blessed not only when they are apprehended by God, but while they are travellers to glory. They are blessed before they are crowned. This seems a paradox to flesh and blood. What, reproached and maligned, yet blessed! A man that looks upon the children of God with a carnal eye and sees how they are afflicted, and like the ship in the gospel which was covered with waves' (Matthew 8:24), …
Thomas Watson—The Beatitudes: An Exposition of Matthew 5:1-12 Of the Necessity of Divine Influences to Produce Regeneration in the Soul.
Titus iii. 5, 6. Titus iii. 5, 6. Not by works of righteousness, which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; which he shed on us abundantly, through Jesus Christ our Saviour. IF my business were to explain and illustrate this scripture at large, it would yield an ample field for accurate criticism and useful discourse, and more especially would lead us into a variety of practical remarks, on which it would be pleasant …
Philip Doddridge—Practical Discourses on Regeneration Christ's Kingly Office
Q-26: HOW DOES CHRIST EXECUTE THE OFFICE OF A KING? A: In subduing us to himself, in ruling and defending us, and in restraining and conquering all his and our enemies. Let us consider now Christ's regal office. And he has on his vesture, and on his thigh, a name written, "King of kings, and Lord of lords", Rev 19:16. Jesus Christ is of mighty renown, he is a king; (1.) he has a kingly title. High and Lofty.' Isa 57:15. (2.) He has his insignia regalia, his ensigns of royalty; corona est insigne …
Thomas Watson—A Body of Divinity The Consolation
Comfort ye, comfort ye my people, saith your God. Speak ye comfortably to Jerusalem, and cry unto her, that her warfare is accomplished, that her iniquity is pardoned: for she hath received at the LORD 's hand double for all her sins. T he particulars of the great "mystery of godliness," as enumerated by the Apostle Paul, constitute the grand and inexhaustible theme of the Gospel ministry, "God manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on …
John Newton—Messiah Vol. 1 Psalms
The piety of the Old Testament Church is reflected with more clearness and variety in the Psalter than in any other book of the Old Testament. It constitutes the response of the Church to the divine demands of prophecy, and, in a less degree, of law; or, rather, it expresses those emotions and aspirations of the universal heart which lie deeper than any formal demand. It is the speech of the soul face to face with God. Its words are as simple and unaffected as human words can be, for it is the genius …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament Links Psalm 3:6 NIVPsalm 3:6 NLTPsalm 3:6 ESVPsalm 3:6 NASBPsalm 3:6 KJV
Psalm 3:6 Commentaries
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