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2 Samuel 22:29–51
He is the tower of salvation to His king, and shows mercy to His anointed, to David and his descendants forevermore (v. 51).
In the final section of this psalm of praise, David shifts from rejoicing in the Lord’s deliverances to extolling Him for the success He has provided. David declares that God has guided him as a “lamp,” directing him in his warfare in order to make his way “perfect.” In other words, God “teaches [David’s] hands to make war.” We have seen instances of this, when God has given David specific battle instructions (1 Sam. 23:2; 30:8; 2 Sam. 5:19–20, 22–25). Furthermore, God empowers him in battle. David says God is his “strength and power,” enabling him to “run against a troop,” “leap over a wall,” and “bend a bow of bronze.” He also causes David to be surefooted like a deer so that he can ascend to heights. In short, God is his “rock,” his underlying support. He confesses that he could not succeed but for God.
In verse 38, David begins to speak of what he has accomplished against his enemies, repeatedly saying “I…” Has he forgotten what he just said—that he triumphs by God’s power? No, for he clearly declares in verses 40–41 that it is God who has armed him and given him victory. He has even delivered David from “the strivings of my people.” Israel is a rebellious nation, prone to revolt against God and His anointed one. But with God’s help, David has been able to hold the nation together, and even to rule over foreigners. With these thoughts, he breaks forth into exultant praise once more in verse 47. All his success he attributes to God. Let no pagan in the watching world associate Israel’s glory with David the man. The praise belongs to God alone, David forcefully declares.
Many commentators view this psalm as a prayer of the Anointed One, the Messiah. Certainly the final verse brings the Messiah fully into view. David writes that God is “the tower of salvation” to His king and merciful to “His anointed,” meaning David. But David notes that God will surely do the same for his descendants—including that one who will come to reign from his throne for eternity. God will deliver Him from His enemies and will give Him success in His great work of redemption. Matthew Henry writes in his commentary, “As [David] looks back, so he looks forward, with pleasure, and assures himself of the kindness God has in store for all the saints, for himself, and also for his seed.”
Coram Deo Living before the face of God
Do you, like David, think of “your” successes as manifestations of God’s grace to you? He is the one who gives you success in your marriage, your parenting, your relationships, your career, your ministry endeavors, and in countless other areas. Thank Him today that He works in and through the circumstances of your life to bless you.
For Further Study
- Gen. 24:12
- Pss. 67:6–7; 107:38
- Ezek. 36:33