This psalm has three sections. In the first section, David describes the inner state of the wicked, those who oppose God. They respond to suggestions of sin in their hearts, and therefore have no fear of God. Instead, they assume that their sinful intentions will remain hidden, and their speech reveals what they desire. They do not realise that their path leads to increased sinful living, very displeasing to God (vv. 1-4).
In contrast, David thinks about the bigness of God in the second section. He uses illustrations drawn from the extent of the sky, the heights of the mountains, and the depths of the sea to indicate the size of God’s attributes. He is capable of looking after humans and animals. In contrast to God’s abilities, the abilities of the wicked are minute. The outcome is that the righteous enjoy wonderful expressions of divine love. They experience assured safety, abundant sustenance and clear direction from the Lord (vv. 5-9).
The third section is David’s prayer that the Lord would continue to show such favour to his people and prevent the wicked from attacking them. In verse 11, he prays for one aspect of that favour to be shown to him in a personal way, that of deliverance from any attacks by those who wanted to destroy him. Indeed, he prays for complete deliverance (vv. 10-12).
David, in this psalm, reminds us that a good way to prepare for prayer is to meditate on the vast difference in capability that exists between God and the wicked. Whatever the wicked intend, the Lord is much wiser and more powerful in defending and delivering those who trust in him from all their enemies. In fact, he is infinitely more wise and powerful.
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