Psalm 61 – Let’s build our confidence in God

David is the composer of Psalm 61, which he had written for the choir director. This is a song to be sung with the string instrument. The historical background can be found in 2 Samuel 15-18. These were David’s fugitive years when he was driven from the palace and throne, by his own son, Absalom. In this Psalm David recalled the covenant and the promises God made to him and Israel. As always we shall see the godly response of David when confronted with overwhelming dismal circumstances in life. Like him, our response to God when faced with an adverse circumstance will reveal the depth of our relationship with Him. David had shown himself to be a person who had learned to trust God deeply in the tough circumstances of his life. In it we also see a deep inner desire for God and his protection.     

David opened with a cry for help in verses 1-2 and then went on to display his confidence in God. This is clearly shown in verses 3-7. Then in verse 8 he made a pledge to stay loyal to God. It’s David’s usual practice to start with prayer and end in praise. When we start praying, we will be able to see the hand of God. We will even sense God’s enablement to see us through the tough fight. When we realize how near God is and how willing He is to help us through, this will be a great reason to praise Him.

Without a doubt, this Psalm also tells us that God is near. As His people we have the freedom to draw near to Him anywhere and anytime. It’s great to know that He is ever ready to pour out His grace over us. He wants to see us through our difficulties and will lead us to the firm Rock that is higher than us. And Christ undoubtedly is that Rock. He is our sure shelter and anchor in life. When the billows of life’s adversities seek to toss and turn our lives upside down, we need this ever sure Rock on whom God had given us, to establish our foundation in the Christian journey. Let’s never forget that Christ is the solid Rock we must stand, because all other grounds are sinking sand. 

Remember that after pleading with God, there must come the confident trust in Him. It’s needful to come to God when we have difficulty in navigating over the rough terrains of life. But when we come pleading, there must be a display of confidence and clear resolution to remain faithful to Him. Yes we can cry to God for help. And no matter how far off He may seem to be, we remain faithfully trusting. For He never fails in a single promise He has made. And He never will!