◄ Psalm 62 ►
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Waiting on God For the choirmaster. According to Jeduthun. A Psalm of David. 1 In God alone my soul finds rest; my salvation comes from Him. 2He alone is my rock and my salvation. He is my fortress; I will never be shaken. 3How long will you threaten a man? Will all of you throw him down like a leaning wall or a tottering fence? 4They fully intend to cast him down from his lofty perch; they delight in lies; with their mouths they bless, but inwardly they curse. Selah 5Rest in God alone, O my soul, for my hope comes from Him. 6He alone is my rock and my salvation; He is my fortress; I will not be shaken. 7My salvation and my honor rest on God, my strong rock; my refuge is in God. 8Trust in Him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts before Him. God is our refuge. Selah 9Lowborn men are but a vapor; the exalted are but a lie. Weighed on the scale, they go up; together they are but a vapor. 10Place no trust in extortion or false hope in stolen goods. If your riches increase, do not set your heart upon them. 11God has spoken once; I have heard this twice: that power belongs to God, 12and loving devotion to You, O Lord. For You will repay each man according to his deeds.a Footnotes: 12 a Cited in Romans 2:6 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 62 Summary Waiting on God Verses 1–2 — Resting in God Alone David begins by sitting quietly before God, certain that rescue comes from Him alone. God is pictured as an immovable rock, a towering fortress, the one place where trembling hearts find steady ground. Verses 3–4 — The Threat of Unstable Enemies Hostile people plot to topple the king like a leaning wall. Their smiles conceal curses. Their words sound polite, but their intent is ruin. Verses 5–8 — Soul Rehearses Confidence David tells his own soul to wait again in silence. Repeating the earlier refrain, he strengthens his heart and then invites all people to pour out their worries to the same refuge. Verses 9–10 — Human Frailty and False Trusts Whether common or powerful, people are lighter than air on God’s scales. Violence, theft, and wealth feel solid, yet prove hollow. Riches may grow, but hearts must stay free of attachment. Verses 11–12 — God’s Power and Loyal Love One unchanging message rings out: power belongs to God and steadfast love belongs to Him. He alone can pay everyone back with perfect fairness. Psalm 62 is a profound expression of faith, trust, and peace amidst turmoil. This Psalm is attributed to David, a man well-acquainted with both peace and adversity. Throughout this Psalm, David declares his unwavering trust in God as his refuge, salvation, and fortress, urging others to do the same. Authorship and Setting Psalm 62 is “For the choirmaster. According to Jeduthun. A Psalm of David.” Jeduthun was a Levitical choir leader (1 Chronicles 16:41–42; 25:1). Many scholars place the psalm during David’s flight from Absalom (2 Samuel 15–18). The language of threatened collapse (v. 3) fits a king whose throne seemed about to fall. Whatever the exact moment, the tone is calm confidence while enemies swirl. The Repeated Word “Only” Six times the Hebrew particle ’ak (“only” or “truly”) drives the point: • v. 1 “For God only my soul waits” • v. 2 “He only is my rock” • v. 4 “They only plan to cast him down” • v. 5 “For God only, O my soul” • v. 6 “He only is my rock” • v. 9 “Only vapor” (implied) The chorus of “only” sweeps away every rival trust. Musical Direction: Jeduthun Jeduthun’s family specialized in songs of praise that highlighted God’s faithfulness. Imagine the temple courts echoing with this psalm, worshipers joining the refrain, “He alone is my rock and my salvation.” Key Images • Rock / Fortress (vv. 2, 6, 7) – evokes the massive limestone cliffs of Judah; travelers still see caves where David once hid (1 Samuel 24). • Scales (v. 9) – bronze or stone balances unearthed in ancient markets remind us how God weighs motives, not appearances (Proverbs 16:2). • Breath / Vapor (v. 9) – a morning mist that vanishes by noon, matching James 4:14, “You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.” • Loving devotion (v. 12, Hebrew ḥesed) – rock-solid love that never breaks covenant (Exodus 34:6). Parallel Passages • Psalm 18:2 – “The LORD is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer.” • Psalm 37:7 – “Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for Him.” • Isaiah 26:3-4 – perfect peace for those who trust the LORD, the everlasting Rock. • Jeremiah 17:5-8 – contrasts the cursed man who trusts in flesh with the blessed man who trusts in the LORD. • Matthew 11:28 – Jesus invites the weary to rest in Him, echoing David’s silent waiting. • 1 Peter 2:6 – Christ as the chosen cornerstone, confirming the ultimate Rock. Human Power vs. God’s Power Verses 9-10 puncture every form of self-reliance: • Social rank – “lowborn” and “exalted” weigh the same: zero. • Coercion – “extortion” and “stolen goods” cannot secure lasting safety. • Wealth – even honest gain is fleeting; Proverbs 23:5 pictures riches sprouting wings. Waiting in Silence Biblical waiting is not passive. It is steady expectation, like a watchman (Psalm 130:6). Silence points to trust so complete that frantic words are unnecessary. Elijah heard God in a gentle whisper (1 Kings 19:12); Habakkuk commanded, “The LORD is in His holy temple; let all the earth be silent before Him” (2 : 20). Archaeological Notes • Fortresses: Judean strongholds such as Masada and En-gedi demonstrate the tactical advantage of sheer rock walls—visual aids for David’s metaphor. • Weighing Stones: Museum collections hold polished weights stamped with ancient Hebrew letters. Verse 9 pictures God placing humanity on His perfect scales. • Eastern Markets: Merchants often carried portable balances; dishonest traders used lighter stones (Amos 8:5). David’s imagery condemns that practice while highlighting God’s just measures. Practical Takeaways 1. Start your day in stillness, reminding your soul who actually delivers. 2. Recognize “climbing” people and shifting politics as leaning walls—do not lean back on them. 3. Pour out your heart (v. 8); God welcomes honest emotion alongside steady trust. 4. Handle money with open hands. Celebrate increase, but strap it loosely; it was never meant to hold you up. 5. Ground security in the God whose power and love never trade places or expire (vv. 11-12). Messianic Echoes Jesus fulfills the rock imagery (Acts 4:11). His resurrection guarantees that those who hide in Him will “never be shaken” (v. 2, cf. Hebrews 12:28). The final repayment of deeds (v. 12) surfaces again in Romans 2:6 and Revelation 22:12, showing continuity between David’s hope and the coming kingdom. Conclusion Psalm 62 invites believers to trade noisy anxiety for settled confidence. Every verse nudges the reader away from brittle human safeguards toward the solid cliff of God’s power and unfailing love. Connections to Additional Scriptures Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. Matthew 6:19-21 Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. 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 Trust in God Alone Psalm 62:1-2 states, Truly my soul finds rest in God; my salvation comes from Him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; He is my fortress, I will never be shaken. David emphasizes that true rest and salvation come from God alone, not from worldly sources. God as Our Fortress In verses 5-6, David reiterates, Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from Him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; He is my fortress, I will not be shaken. The repetition underscores the steadfastness and reliability of God as our protector. The Futility of Trusting in Man Verses 9-10 caution against placing trust in people or wealth: Lowborn men are but a vapor, the highborn are but a lie. If weighed on a balance, they are nothing; together they are only a breath. Do not trust in extortion or put vain hope in stolen goods; though your riches increase, do not set your heart on them. God's Power and Love The psalm concludes with a powerful declaration in verses 11-12: One thing God has spoken, two things I have heard: that You, O God, are strong, and that You, O Lord, are loving. Surely You will reward each person according to what he has done. This highlights God's dual nature of strength and love, assuring us of His just and compassionate character. Practical Applications Seek Rest in God In moments of anxiety or stress, intentionally pause to seek God's presence and find rest in Him, just as David did. Evaluate Your Trust Reflect on where you place your trust. Are you relying on worldly security, or is your confidence rooted in God? Guard Against Materialism Be mindful of the temptation to trust in wealth or possessions. Instead, focus on cultivating a heart that treasures God above all. Embrace God's Strength and Love In times of weakness or fear, remind yourself of God's strength and love, trusting that He is both powerful and compassionate. People 1. God Referred to as the source of salvation, strength, and refuge. The psalmist expresses trust and reliance on God alone. The Hebrew word used for God here is "אֱלֹהִים" (Elohim), emphasizing His power and majesty. 2. David (the Psalmist) Although not explicitly named in the text of Psalm 62, the title of the psalm attributes it to David. He is the speaker who expresses his trust in God and encourages others to do the same. 3. Enemies/Oppressors These are the people who seek to topple the psalmist, described metaphorically as a leaning wall or a tottering fence. They are characterized by deceit and falsehood. 4. People The psalmist addresses the people, urging them to trust in God at all times and pour out their hearts before Him. The Hebrew term "עָם" (am) is used, referring to a community or nation. 5. Men of Low Estate and High Estate These are mentioned to illustrate the futility of trusting in human status or wealth. Both are described as lighter than a breath when weighed on a balance. Places 1. Rock The psalmist refers to God as a "rock," symbolizing strength, stability, and protection. In Hebrew, the word used is "צוּר" (tsur), which conveys the idea of a solid and unshakeable foundation. 2. Salvation This is not a physical place but a state of being that the psalmist attributes to God. The Hebrew word "יְשׁוּעָה" (yeshu'ah) signifies deliverance and victory, emphasizing God's role as a savior. 3. Fortress God is described as a "fortress," indicating a place of safety and refuge. The Hebrew term "מִשְׂגָּב" (misgab) suggests a high, secure place, offering protection from enemies. 4. Refuge The psalmist calls God a "refuge," a place of shelter and safety. The Hebrew word "מַחֲסֶה" (machaseh) implies a hiding place or a sanctuary where one can find peace and security. Events 1. Declaration of Trust in God The psalm begins with David expressing his complete reliance on God for salvation and rest. He states, "Truly my soul finds rest in God; my salvation comes from Him" (Psalm 62:1). The Hebrew word for "rest" (דּוּמִיָּה, dumiyyah) implies silence or stillness, indicating a deep, peaceful trust. 2. God as a Fortress David describes God as his rock and fortress, emphasizing that he will not be greatly shaken. "He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I will never be shaken" (Psalm 62:2). The imagery of a rock (צוּר, tsur) conveys strength and stability. 3. Contrast with Human Schemes The psalm contrasts the security found in God with the instability of human plots. David laments how long people will attack and seek to topple him, comparing them to a leaning wall or tottering fence (Psalm 62:3-4). 4. Reaffirmation of Trust David reiterates his trust in God, emphasizing that his hope and salvation are found in Him alone. "Find rest, O my soul, in God alone, for my hope comes from Him" (Psalm 62:5). 5. Exhortation to Trust in God David encourages others to trust in God at all times and to pour out their hearts before Him. "Trust in Him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts before Him. God is our refuge" (Psalm 62:8). The Hebrew word for "refuge" (מַחֲסֶה, machaseh) suggests a place of safety and protection. 6. Futility of Trusting in Man and Riches The psalm warns against placing trust in human power or wealth, which are ultimately unreliable. "Do not trust in extortion or put vain hope in stolen goods; though your riches increase, do not set your heart on them" (Psalm 62:10). 7. God's Power and Love The psalm concludes with a declaration of God's power and unfailing love, affirming that He rewards each person according to their deeds. "One thing God has spoken, two things I have heard: that You, O God, are strong, and that You, O Lord, are loving. Surely You will reward each person according to what he has done" (Psalm 62:11-12). Lessons from Psalm 62 1. Trust in God Alone Psalm 62:1 begins with a profound declaration: "Truly my soul finds rest in God; my salvation comes from Him." This verse reminds us that true peace and salvation are found only in God. In a world full of distractions and false promises, we are called to place our trust solely in Him, knowing that He is our ultimate source of rest and deliverance. 2. God is Our Rock and Fortress Verse 2 states, "He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I will never be shaken." This imagery of God as a rock and fortress emphasizes His unchanging nature and strength. When life's storms rage, we can stand firm, knowing that our foundation is secure in Him. 3. The Futility of Human Schemes In verses 3 and 4, the psalmist reflects on the schemes of those who seek to harm him. "How long will you threaten a man? Will all of you throw him down like a leaning wall or a tottering fence?" These verses remind us of the futility of human plots against God's people. Ultimately, God is in control, and no scheme can thwart His plans. 4. Rest in God's Sovereignty Verse 5 encourages us to find rest in God's sovereignty: "Rest in God alone, O my soul, for my hope comes from Him." This is a call to quiet our anxious hearts and trust in His perfect timing and wisdom. Our hope is secure because it is anchored in the One who holds the universe. 5. God is Our Refuge Verse 7 declares, "My salvation and my honor rest on God, my strong rock; my refuge is in God." In times of trouble, we can seek refuge in God, knowing that He is our protector and source of honor. He shields us from harm and lifts us up in His strength. 6. Pour Out Your Heart to God Verse 8 invites us to "Trust in Him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts before Him. God is our refuge." This is an encouragement to be open and honest with God in prayer. He desires a relationship with us where we can share our deepest fears and joys, knowing He listens and cares. 7. The Transience of Wealth and Status Verses 9 and 10 remind us of the fleeting nature of wealth and status: "Lowborn men are but a vapor, the highborn are but a lie. If weighed on a balance, they are nothing; together they are only a breath." Our true value is not found in earthly possessions or positions but in our relationship with God. 8. God is Just and Fair Verse 12 assures us of God's justice: "And loving devotion belongs to You, O Lord. For You will repay each man according to his deeds." This is a reminder that God is just and fair, rewarding righteousness and addressing wrongdoing. We can trust in His perfect judgment. 9. The Power of God's Word Throughout Psalm 62, the psalmist emphasizes the power and reliability of God's word. His promises are true and unchanging, providing a solid foundation for our faith. As we meditate on Scripture, we are strengthened and encouraged in our walk with Him. 10. The Assurance of Salvation Finally, Psalm 62 is a testament to the assurance of salvation found in God alone. As verse 1 declares, "Truly my soul finds rest in God; my salvation comes from Him." This assurance is a source of great joy and peace, knowing that our eternal destiny is secure in Christ. May these lessons from Psalm 62 inspire you to deepen your trust in God and find rest in His unchanging love and faithfulness. Topics 1. Trust in God Alone Psalm 62 emphasizes the importance of placing trust solely in God. The psalmist declares, "Truly my soul finds rest in God; my salvation comes from Him" (Psalm 62:1). The Hebrew word for "rest" (דּוּמִיָּה, dumiyyah) conveys a sense of silence and stillness, highlighting the peace found in trusting God. 2. God as a Rock and Fortress The psalmist repeatedly refers to God as a "rock" and "fortress," underscoring His strength and protection. "He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I will never be shaken" (Psalm 62:2). The imagery of a rock (צוּר, tsur) signifies stability and reliability. 3. The Futility of Trusting in Man The psalm contrasts the reliability of God with the unreliability of humans. "How long will you threaten a man? Will all of you throw him down like a leaning wall or a tottering fence?" (Psalm 62:3). This highlights the transient and unstable nature of human strength. 4. The Deceptiveness of Riches and Power The psalm warns against placing trust in wealth and power. "Do not trust in extortion or put vain hope in stolen goods; though your riches increase, do not set your heart on them" (Psalm 62:10). The Hebrew word for "extortion" (עֹשֶׁק, osheq) implies oppression and unjust gain. 5. God's Sovereign Power and Love The psalm concludes with a declaration of God's power and love. "One thing God has spoken; two things I have heard: that You, O God, are strong, and that You, O Lord, are loving" (Psalm 62:11-12). The dual attributes of strength (עֹז, oz) and love (חֶסֶד, chesed) affirm God's ability and willingness to care for His people. 6. Divine Justice and Reward The psalmist affirms that God will reward each person according to their deeds. "For You will reward each man according to his deeds" (Psalm 62:12). This reflects the biblical principle of divine justice, where God is both fair and righteous in His judgments. Themes 1. Trust in God Alone Psalm 62 emphasizes the importance of placing trust solely in God. The psalmist declares, "Truly my soul finds rest in God; my salvation comes from Him" (Psalm 62:1). The Hebrew word for "rest" (דּוּמִיָּה, dumiyyah) implies a quiet waiting or silence, highlighting a deep, unwavering trust in God's provision and timing. 2. God as a Refuge and Fortress The psalmist repeatedly refers to God as a "rock" and "fortress," underscoring His role as a protector and stronghold. "He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I will never be shaken" (Psalm 62:2). The imagery of a fortress (מִשְׂגָּב, misgab) conveys a sense of security and defense against adversities. 3. The Futility of Trusting in Human Strength The psalm contrasts the reliability of God with the unreliability of human power and wealth. "Surely they intend to topple him from his lofty place; they delight in lies" (Psalm 62:4). The psalmist warns against placing trust in people or material wealth, which are transient and deceptive. 4. The Transience of Human Life The psalm reflects on the fleeting nature of human existence. "Surely men of low degree are a vapor, and men of high degree are a lie" (Psalm 62:9). The Hebrew word for "vapor" (הֶבֶל, hebel) suggests something insubstantial and temporary, reminding believers of the brevity of life. 5. God's Power and Unfailing Love The psalm concludes with a declaration of God's power and steadfast love. "One thing God has spoken; two things I have heard: that You, O God, are strong, and that You, O Lord, are loving" (Psalm 62:11-12). The dual attributes of strength and love highlight God's ability to protect and His compassionate nature. 6. Divine Justice and Reward The psalmist affirms that God will reward each person according to their deeds. "For You will reward each man according to his deeds" (Psalm 62:12). This theme underscores the belief in divine justice, where God, as a righteous judge, will ultimately hold individuals accountable. Prayer Points Pray for Trust Ask God to help you place your trust in Him alone, especially in challenging times. Seek God's Rest Pray for the ability to find true rest and peace in God's presence, regardless of external circumstances. Guard Against Materialism Request God's guidance in keeping your heart free from the love of money and material possessions. Embrace God's Nature Thank God for His strength and love, and pray for a deeper understanding of His character in your life. Answering Tough Questions 1. In Psalm 62:1–2, how can the promise of complete safety in God be reconciled with the reality of suffering and death among believers? 2. Psalm 62:9 suggests all people are “nothing” in comparison to God—how does this align with other passages like Genesis 1:27 that emphasize human value? 3. If Psalm 62:8 urges total trust in God, why does the text provide no tangible proof for skeptics demanding empirical evidence? 4. In Psalm 62:11–12, God rewards each person according to their deeds—how does this harmonize with the New Testament’s teaching on salvation by grace (Ephesians 2:8–9)? 5. In Psalm 62, why is there still rampant injustice (verses 3, 9–10) if God truly is the believer’s secure refuge? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does David express his trust in God in this Psalm? 2. How can we practically "wait in silence" for God in our daily lives? 3. What does it mean to you that God is your "rock" and "salvation"? 4. How can you respond when people seek to harm you or undermine your position? 5. How does David's admonition about the deceitfulness of wealth resonate with our society today? 6. How can we guard our hearts against placing trust in wealth or power? 7. In what ways does David's view of human lowliness reflect on our own perspective of self-importance? 8. How can we apply the teaching of God's power and steadfast love in our personal lives? 9. How does the Psalmist's declaration that God will render to a man according to his work impact our understanding of justice? 10. How does David's reliance on God influence your personal faith journey? 11. How can the themes from Psalm 62 be applied in dealing with modern societal issues? 12. How does the concept of God as a refuge apply to your present challenges? 13. What steps can you take to deepen your trust in God as David did? 14. In what ways can we encourage others to trust in God as David does in this Psalm? 15. How does this Psalm speak to the condition of the human heart? 16. How can we understand and combat the transient nature of worldly power and wealth, as pointed out by David? 17. How does the recognition of God's control over everything provide peace amidst turmoil? 18. In light of David's exhortation, how can we handle deceit and betrayal in our lives? 19. How can we apply the lesson of God's just reward in our interactions with others? 20. What practical actions can you take to manifest the faith and trust in God exhibited by David in Psalm 62? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions