◄ Psalm 59 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
Deliver Me from My Enemies (1 Samuel 19:1–24) For the choirmaster. To the tune of “Do Not Destroy.” A Miktama of David, when Saul sent men to watch David’s house in order to kill him. 1 Deliver me from my enemies, O my God; protect me from those who rise against me. 2Deliver me from workers of iniquity, and save me from men of bloodshed. 3See how they lie in wait for me. Fierce men conspire against me for no transgression or sin of my own, O LORD. 4For no fault of my own, they move swiftly to attack me. Arise to help me, and take notice. 5O LORD God of Hosts, the God of Israel, rouse Yourself to punish all the nations; show no mercy to the wicked traitors. Selah 6They return in the evening, snarling like dogs and prowling around the city. 7See what they spew from their mouths— sharp words from their lips: “For who can hear us?” 8But You, O LORD, laugh at them; You scoff at all the nations. 9I will keep watch for You, O my strength, because You, O God, are my fortress. 10My God of loving devotion will come to meet me; God will let me stare down my foes. 11Do not kill them, or my people will forget. Scatter them by Your power, and bring them down, O Lord, our shield. 12By the sins of their mouths and the words of their lips, let them be trapped in their pride, in the curses and lies they utter. 13Consume them in wrath; consume them till they are no more, so it may be known to the ends of the earth that God rules over Jacob. Selah 14They return in the evening, snarling like dogs and prowling around the city. 15They scavenge for food, and growl if they are not satisfied. 16But I will sing of Your strength and proclaim Your loving devotion in the morning. For You are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble. 17To You, O my strength, I sing praises, for You, O God, are my fortress, my God of loving devotion. Footnotes: 1 a Miktam is probably a musical or liturgical term; used for Psalms 16 and 56–60. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Psalm 59 Summary Deliver Me from My Enemies Verses 1–2 – Cry for Rescue David pleads for immediate deliverance and protection from violent men, naming God as his only refuge. Verses 3–4 – Innocence Pleaded The singer insists he has done nothing wrong; yet powerful enemies surround and attack without cause. Verse 5 – Appeal to God’s Justice David calls on the “LORD God of Hosts” to rise up, judge the nations, and show no mercy to the traitors. Verses 6–7 – Nightly Stalkers His foes circle the city each night like snarling dogs, spewing cutting words and boasting that no one hears. Verse 8 – Divine Laughter The psalmist trusts that God laughs at such arrogance and scoffs at every hostile nation. Verses 9–10 – Watchful Faith David waits expectantly; God, his fortress, will meet him with loyal love and let him triumph over his enemies. Verses 11–13 – Judgment Without Forgetting He asks God not to kill the enemies outright—lest the people forget—but to scatter them, expose their pride, and make all the earth know that God rules over Jacob. Verses 14–15 – Restless Foes Revisited The wicked return each evening, still hungry and growling, searching the streets for anything to devour. Verses 16–17 – Dawn Praise and Confidence While they prowl at night, David greets the morning with songs about God’s strength and faithful love, confident that his fortress will never fail. Psalm 59, penned by David, is a heartfelt prayer for deliverance from adversaries. The Psalm vividly depicts the hostile circumstances David faced, his unwavering faith in God amidst these trials, and the affirmation of God's protective power and ultimate justice. This Psalm beautifully balances the pleas for divine intervention with an ending note of profound thanksgiving and praise. Historical Setting • Title note: “When Saul sent men to watch David’s house in order to kill him” (1 Samuel 19:11-17). Michal, David’s wife, lowered him through a window while Saul’s agents waited outside. The psalm gives voice to David’s thoughts during that tense night. • “Miktam” likely marks a golden or memorable song. The instruction “Do Not Destroy” probably indicates a familiar tune used for several psalms (57, 58, 75). • Dating places this around 1012 BC, soon after David’s service in Saul’s court and before his wilderness years. The imagery of soldiers prowling the city’s streets matches life in Gibeah, Saul’s capital. Literary Shape 1. Plea for help (vv. 1-2). 2. Protest of innocence (vv. 3-4). 3. Appeal to God’s universal rule (v. 5). 4. Description of the enemy (vv. 6-7). 5. Statement of trust (vv. 8-10). 6. Prayer for measured judgment (vv. 11-13). 7. Enemy refrain repeated (vv. 14-15). 8. Closing praise (vv. 16-17). The repeated dog imagery (vv. 6, 14) frames the central confidence section, creating a night-and-morning contrast that highlights God’s protection through dark hours. Key Themes • God as Fortress: Four times David uses fortress language (vv. 9, 16, 17). The Hebrew word evokes a high, walled place unreachable by enemies, foreshadowing Proverbs 18:10. • Innocent Suffering: Like Psalm 7 and 1 Peter 2:23, the righteous may be hunted without cause yet turn to God, not self-defense. • Divine Laughter: Verse 8 echoes Psalm 2:4; God mocks human rebellion because His throne is secure. • Measured Judgment: David asks for scattering, not instant death (v. 11), so future generations remember God’s hand. Similar restraint appears in Romans 12:19—“Vengeance is Mine; I will repay.” • Morning Praise: The shift from night terror to dawn song anticipates Lamentations 3:22-23, “His mercies are new every morning.” Connections to Other Scriptures • 1 Samuel 19 parallels supply narrative backdrop. • Psalm 57 and 142 share the refrain “I take refuge in You,” also set in David’s flight from Saul. • Verse 10’s “faithful God” (hesed) links to Exodus 34:6 and Hosea 2:19—God’s covenant love. • Verse 13’s worldwide recognition of God matches Psalm 46:10 and Habakkuk 2:14. • The prowling-dog image resurfaces in Psalm 22:16, pointing ahead to Christ surrounded by hostile accusers. Messianic Hints • Innocent persecution and watchful enemies anticipate plots against Jesus (Matthew 26:3-4). • God’s laughter at nations (v. 8) lines up with the Messianic rule of Psalm 2, fulfilled in Christ’s ultimate kingship (Acts 13:33). • The morning victory song (v. 16) foreshadows resurrection morning, when darkness gives way to triumphant praise (Luke 24:1-6). Archaeological Insights • Ancient Near Eastern guard posts often stood by city gates; soldiers could station nearby houses like David’s. Tablets from Mari (18th century BC) mention nighttime house surveillance of political rivals. • “Dogs” in biblical times were mostly wild scavengers, not pets. They roamed city dumps after dark, a vivid picture of hostile forces lurking outside a home. • The term “fortress” (Hebrew misgab) brings to mind cliff-side strongholds discovered at En-Gedi and Masada—almost impossible to storm—mirroring David’s later hideouts. Practical Application • When unjustly targeted, believers can follow David’s pattern: pour out honest fear (vv. 1-4), remember God’s rule (v. 8), wait in faith (v. 9), and finish with praise (vv. 16-17). • Restraint in revenge: David prays for God’s timing, not swift personal payback (v. 11). • Night-to-morning rhythm invites modern readers to end each day casting burdens on the Lord (Psalm 4:8) and greet dawn with gratitude. Notes on Translation • “God of Hosts” (v. 5) renders YHWH Ṣĕba’ōt, portraying God as commander of heavenly armies. • “Scatter” (v. 11) can also read “wander”: the verb suggests forced, restless movement—judgment without annihilation. • “Loving devotion” (hesed) in vv. 10, 16, 17 is covenant loyalty, a steady, committed love that does not waver when enemies roar. Summary Snapshot Psalm 59 turns an anxious night under surveillance into a psalm of confident dawn praise. David’s experience—and his God-given words—continue to assure any believer hemmed in by unfair opposition: the God who laughs at rebels also stands guard outside every faithful heart. Connections to Additional Scriptures Psalm 18:2 The LORD is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer. My God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. Romans 12:19 Do not avenge yourselves, beloved, but leave room for God’s wrath. For it is written: 'Vengeance is Mine, I will repay, says the Lord.' Philippians 4:6-7 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Teaching Points Context of Persecution Psalm 59 was composed by David when Saul sought his life. This historical backdrop highlights the intensity of David's plight and his reliance on God. God as Protector David repeatedly calls upon God as his fortress and refuge, emphasizing the divine protection available to believers. Deliver me from my enemies, O my God; protect me from those who rise against me (Psalm 59:1). The Nature of the Wicked David describes his enemies as bloodthirsty and deceitful, illustrating the reality of evil in the world. See how they lie in wait for me! Fierce men conspire against me for no transgression or sin of my own, O LORD (Psalm 59:3). Confidence in God's Justice Despite the threat, David expresses confidence that God will deal with the wicked. But You, O LORD, laugh at them; You scoff at all the nations (Psalm 59:8). Praise Amidst Trials The psalm concludes with David's commitment to praise God, demonstrating faith in God's deliverance. But I will sing of Your strength and proclaim Your loving devotion in the morning (Psalm 59:16). Practical Applications Seek God's Protection In times of trouble, turn to God as your fortress and refuge, trusting in His ability to deliver you from harm. Recognize Evil Be aware of the presence of evil and deceit in the world, and pray for discernment to navigate these challenges. Trust in Divine Justice Have confidence that God will ultimately deal with wickedness and injustice, even when it seems overwhelming. Maintain a Heart of Praise Cultivate a habit of praising God, even in difficult circumstances, as an expression of faith and trust in His sovereignty. People 1. David The author of the psalm, who is seeking God's protection from his enemies. David is the anointed king of Israel, and his life is often threatened by those who oppose him. In the context of Psalm 59, he is specifically asking for deliverance from Saul's men who are sent to kill him. 2. God Referred to as David's protector and deliverer. David calls upon God to save him from his enemies and to punish the wicked. The Hebrew word used for God in this psalm is "Elohim," which emphasizes His power and might. 3. Enemies These are the people who are seeking to harm David. They are described as bloodthirsty and deceitful. In the historical context, these enemies are likely the men sent by King Saul to capture David. 4. Nations Mentioned in verse 5, where David calls upon God to "rouse Yourself to punish all the nations." This can be understood as a reference to the broader scope of God's justice, extending beyond Israel to all peoples. 5. The Wicked A general term for those who oppose God and His anointed. David describes them as howling like dogs and prowling around the city, seeking to do harm. Places 1. The City The psalmist refers to being surrounded by enemies, which implies a setting within a city. In the historical context, this could be Jerusalem, where David often faced threats. The Hebrew word for city, "עִיר" (ʿîr), is often used in the Psalms to denote a place of habitation or stronghold. 2. The House The psalmist speaks of enemies lying in wait around his house. This suggests a domestic setting where the psalmist seeks refuge. The Hebrew word "בַּיִת" (bayit) is used for house, indicating a personal and intimate space under threat. Events 1. David's Plea for Deliverance David begins by asking God to deliver him from his enemies. He cries out, "Deliver me from my enemies, O my God; protect me from those who rise against me" (Psalm 59:1). The Hebrew word for "deliver" (הַצִּילֵנִי, "hatzileni") emphasizes a plea for rescue and salvation. 2. Request for Protection David continues to seek God's protection from those who seek his life, saying, "Deliver me from workers of iniquity, and save me from men of bloodshed" (Psalm 59:2). The term "men of bloodshed" (אַנְשֵׁי דָמִים, "anshei damim") highlights the violent nature of his adversaries. 3. Description of the Threat David describes the threat he faces, noting that his enemies lie in wait for him. He states, "For behold, they lie in wait for my soul; the mighty gather against me, not for my transgression or sin, O LORD" (Psalm 59:3). The Hebrew word for "soul" (נַפְשִׁי, "nafshi") can also mean "life," indicating the danger to his very existence. 4. Assertion of Innocence David asserts his innocence, claiming that he has done no wrong to warrant such hostility. He says, "For no fault of mine, they run and prepare themselves" (Psalm 59:4). This highlights the unjust nature of the persecution he faces. 5. Call for Divine Intervention David calls upon God to awaken and see what is happening, asking for divine intervention. He prays, "Awake to help me, and behold" (Psalm 59:4). The Hebrew verb "awake" (עוּרָה, "urah") is a call for God to take action. 6. Invocation of God's Justice David invokes God's justice against the nations and his enemies, saying, "You, O LORD God of Hosts, the God of Israel, rouse Yourself to punish all the nations; show no mercy to the wicked traitors" (Psalm 59:5). The term "God of Hosts" (אֱלֹהֵי צְבָאוֹת, "Elohei Tzevaot") emphasizes God's power and authority over all. 7. Description of the Enemies' Actions David describes the actions of his enemies, likening them to dogs that prowl the city. He observes, "They return at evening, snarling like dogs and prowling around the city" (Psalm 59:6). The imagery of dogs conveys their persistent and threatening presence. 8. Expression of Confidence in God Despite the threat, David expresses confidence in God's strength and protection. He declares, "But I will sing of Your strength and proclaim Your loving devotion in the morning" (Psalm 59:16). The Hebrew word for "loving devotion" (חַסְדֶּךָ, "chasdecha") refers to God's steadfast love and mercy. 9. Praise for God's Deliverance David concludes with praise for God's deliverance, affirming that God is his fortress and refuge. He states, "To You, O my strength, I sing praises, for You, O God, are my fortress, my God of loving devotion" (Psalm 59:17). The repetition of "fortress" (מִשְׂגַּבִּי, "misgabi") underscores God's role as a protector. Lessons from Psalm 59 1. Trust in God's Deliverance Psalm 59 begins with a plea for deliverance from enemies, reminding us that God is our ultimate protector. "Deliver me from my enemies, O my God; protect me from those who rise against me" (Psalm 59:1). This verse encourages us to trust in God's power to save us from any adversity, reinforcing the belief that He is always in control. 2. God is Our Fortress The psalmist repeatedly refers to God as a fortress, a place of safety and refuge. "O my strength, I will watch for You, for You, O God, are my fortress" (Psalm 59:9). This imagery reassures us that no matter the storm, we have a stronghold in God, a place where we can find peace and security. 3. God's Justice Prevails Psalm 59 emphasizes that God is just and will ultimately judge the wicked. "But You, O LORD, laugh at them; You scoff at all the nations" (Psalm 59:8). This serves as a reminder that while injustice may seem rampant, God's justice will prevail, and He will hold the wicked accountable. 4. The Power of Prayer The psalmist's earnest prayers highlight the importance of communicating with God. "I will sing of Your strength, and proclaim Your loving devotion in the morning" (Psalm 59:16). This encourages us to make prayer a daily habit, knowing that God hears and responds to our cries. 5. God's Unfailing Love Throughout the psalm, the writer acknowledges God's steadfast love. "But I will sing of Your strength and proclaim Your loving devotion in the morning" (Psalm 59:16). This reminds us that God's love is unwavering and ever-present, providing comfort and hope in all circumstances. 6. Confidence in God's Timing The psalmist demonstrates patience and confidence in God's perfect timing. "Do not kill them, or my people will forget. Scatter them by Your power, and bring them down, O Lord, our shield" (Psalm 59:11). This teaches us to trust in God's timing, knowing that He works all things for our good. 7. God's Sovereignty Over Nations Psalm 59 acknowledges God's sovereignty over all nations. "You, O LORD, laugh at them; You scoff at all the nations" (Psalm 59:8). This reassures us that no matter the political climate or global unrest, God is in control and His plans will not be thwarted. 8. The Importance of Praise The psalmist concludes with a commitment to praise God. "I will sing praises to You, O my strength, for God is my fortress, my God of loving devotion" (Psalm 59:17). This highlights the importance of maintaining a heart of gratitude and worship, regardless of our circumstances. 9. God's Protection is Personal The psalmist's personal relationship with God is evident as he refers to Him as "my God." "My God of loving devotion" (Psalm 59:17). This personal connection reminds us that God's protection and care are not just abstract concepts but are intimately available to each of us. 10. Assurance of God's Presence Finally, Psalm 59 assures us of God's constant presence. "For God is my fortress, my God of loving devotion" (Psalm 59:17). This assurance provides peace and confidence, knowing that we are never alone and that God is always with us, guiding and protecting us through life's journey. Topics 1. Plea for Deliverance (Verses 1-2) David begins with a plea for God to deliver him from his enemies. He asks God to "deliver me from my enemies, O my God; protect me from those who rise against me" (Psalm 59:1). The Hebrew word for "deliver" (נצל, natsal) conveys a sense of being snatched away or rescued. 2. Description of Enemies (Verses 3-4) David describes the malicious intent of his adversaries, stating, "For behold, they lie in wait for me; fierce men conspire against me" (Psalm 59:3). The Hebrew term for "fierce" (עז, az) implies strength and aggression. 3. Appeal to God's Justice (Verses 5-6) David appeals to God's justice, asking Him to "rouse Yourself to punish all the nations" (Psalm 59:5). The Hebrew root for "punish" (פקד, paqad) can mean to attend to or visit, often with the implication of judgment. 4. Confidence in God's Protection (Verses 7-10) Despite the threats, David expresses confidence in God's protection, declaring, "But You, O LORD, laugh at them; You scoff at all the nations" (Psalm 59:8). The Hebrew word for "laugh" (שחק, sachaq) suggests derision or mockery, indicating God's superiority over the enemies. 5. Prayer for Vindication (Verses 11-13) David prays for vindication, asking God not to kill his enemies immediately but to "scatter them by Your power" (Psalm 59:11). The Hebrew verb for "scatter" (נוד, nud) implies causing to wander or disperse. 6. Declaration of God's Sovereignty (Verses 14-15) David acknowledges God's sovereignty, noting that his enemies "return at evening, snarling like dogs" (Psalm 59:14). The imagery of dogs conveys persistence and menace. 7. Praise for God's Strength and Love (Verses 16-17) The psalm concludes with David's praise for God's strength and love, affirming, "But I will sing of Your strength and proclaim Your loving devotion in the morning" (Psalm 59:16). The Hebrew word for "loving devotion" (חסד, chesed) is often translated as steadfast love or mercy, highlighting God's covenantal faithfulness. Themes 1. Divine Deliverance and Protection The psalmist begins by pleading for deliverance from enemies, emphasizing God's role as a protector. The Hebrew root for "deliver" (הַצִּילֵנִי, "hatzileni") underscores the urgency and need for divine intervention. Psalm 59:1 states, "Deliver me from my enemies, O my God; protect me from those who rise against me." 2. Injustice and Persecution The psalmist describes the unjust treatment and persecution faced, highlighting the theme of suffering at the hands of the wicked. This is evident in Psalm 59:3, "For behold, they lie in wait for my life; fierce men conspire against me for no transgression or sin of mine, O LORD." 3. God as a Refuge and Fortress The imagery of God as a stronghold is prevalent, providing a sense of security and refuge. The Hebrew word for "fortress" (מִשְׂגָּבִי, "misgabi") conveys a place of safety. Psalm 59:9 states, "I will keep watch for You, O my strength, because You, O God, are my fortress." 4. Divine Justice and Retribution The psalmist calls for God’s justice against the wicked, trusting in His righteous judgment. This theme is captured in Psalm 59:13, "Consume them in wrath; consume them till they are no more. Then it will be known to the ends of the earth that God rules over Jacob." 5. Praise and Thanksgiving Despite the adversities, the psalmist resolves to praise God, reflecting a heart of gratitude and trust. The Hebrew root for "sing" (אָשִׁירָה, "ashirah") indicates a joyful expression of worship. Psalm 59:16-17 declares, "But I will sing of Your strength and proclaim Your loving devotion in the morning. For You are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble. To You, O my strength, I will sing praises, for God is my fortress, my God of loving devotion." Prayer Points Pray for Protection Ask God to be your fortress and shield against any adversaries or challenges you face. Pray for Discernment Seek wisdom to recognize and navigate the presence of evil in the world. Pray for Justice Intercede for God's justice to prevail in situations of injustice and wickedness. Pray for a Heart of Praise Request a spirit of gratitude and praise, regardless of your circumstances, trusting in God's faithfulness and love. Answering Tough Questions 1. How can we verify historically (Psalm 59:1) that Saul actually sent men to watch David’s house, given the lack of external archaeological evidence? 2. If Psalm 59:4 claims innocence on David’s part, why do other passages (e.g., 2 Samuel 11) contradict this portrayal of his character? 3. Does the violent imagery in Psalm 59:13 conflict with the Bible’s broader moral teachings on mercy and forgiveness? 4. Psalm 59:8 depicts God laughing at nations; how should this be understood scientifically or historically, rather than as a purely poetic metaphor? 5. Why does Psalm 59 align with David’s perspective in 1 Samuel 19:11 but omit details that might resolve historical inconsistencies in the biblical account? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does David describe his enemies in Psalm 59? What does this reveal about the nature of his struggles? 2. How does David portray his innocence in the face of his adversaries? 3. How does the metaphor of enemies as 'dogs' prowling the city walls amplify the intensity of David's situation? 4. What does David's request for God not to slay his enemies, but scatter them, say about his perspective on justice and retribution? 5. How can David's show of trust in God during his tribulations be applied to your life's challenges? 6. How does David's transition from plea to praise reflect his faith in God's deliverance? 7. What is the significance of David choosing to sing about God's protection every morning and evening? 8. How does Psalm 59 portray God's characteristics, particularly in relation to His dealings with the wicked? 9. How can David's repeated affirmations of God's steadfast love inspire you in times of distress? 10. What lesson can you draw from the way David handles his adversaries and his reliance on God? 11. How does this Psalm influence your understanding of the role of faith in dealing with adversity? 12. David sees his enemies' slander as self-destructive. How does this perspective change your understanding of handling false accusations? 13. How can you relate the themes of Psalm 59 to present-day living? 14. How does David's way of handling his struggles guide you in dealing with hostility in your personal or professional life? 15. What practical actions can you take in your life to reflect David's reliance on God during adversities? 16. How does this Psalm encourage you to react in situations where you're falsely accused or treated unjustly? 17. How can you adopt David's habit of praising God amidst trials in your daily life? 18. How can the themes of this Psalm provide comfort or guidance during a crisis or challenging situation? 19. If you were in David's place, facing such hostility, how would your prayers reflect your faith and trust in God? 20. What personal experiences have led you to call out for God's protection and justice as David does in this Psalm? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions