Psalm 3

Most of the enemies we face are self-created. This Psalm is identified as written when David was fleeing from his son, Absalom. But if you know the story of David his son’s rebellion was partly a result of a father’s neglect. The rebellion of his son caused David to question how deep his people’s loyalty would be and whether it was a sign of God’s withdrawal of His favor (remember, David had been part of the fall of Saul as God withdrew His favor).

Family is perhaps the most difficult and demanding part of our lives. While we are flooded with media images of healthy and vibrant families what most of us experience is slightly different. Fortunately for us, God’s Word allows us to see families at their best AND their worst.

David’s prayer expresses confidence in God’s protection as well as a slight apprehension. It is as though he expresses his confidence and trust in one breath but then cries out for immediate deliverance (vs 5-7). The last phrase of David’s prayer is for God’s blessing on His people. The most important issue for David is not resolving the conflict between him and his son but that God’s people might continue to experience the fullness of His presence.

As we look at this Psalm in our own family experience we can identify with the sense of isolation and loneliness when a family member chooses to distance themselves from us. Those moments of hurt are invitations from God to remember that He alone is our rest and refuge.