David wrote this psalm to describe a God-given deliverance provided at some stage in his reign over Israel. The deliverance was given in unlikely circumstances because the military superiority of the enemy seemed so great and their intention to destroy Israel was very strong (as we can see from the illustrations David uses of them – they were like wild animals devouring prey or a river in flood removing all in its path). But the Lord was with his people, and he rescued them (vv. 1-5).
Therefore, David wrote this psalm to celebrate God-given deliverance. Yet he also indicates that the deliverance came at the last minute. They could see the teeth of the attackers and they were in the snare of the trappers (vv. 6-7). The Lord had waited until then to rescue them in order for all to see that he alone had done it.
His deliverance was a reminder of his covenant faithfulness as David points out when he says that their help is in the name or character of the Lord. He does not change, which is why his people were not consumed. Although he allowed trouble to come for a variety of reasons, he eventually delivered them. And his deliverance is in line with the power that he possesses as the Creator of the universe.
The travellers to Zion who used this collection of psalms lived centuries after David. Indeed, they were aware of greater deliverances that the Lord had provided from more powerful enemies than David had. Military methods had moved on and godless regimes had more sophisticated methods. But a visit to Jerusalem reminded the pilgrims that their God was still in charge and knew when to deliver his people.
This reality is even greater for us. We know the history of the church and how it has often been in great trouble. But eventually the Lord has rescued his cause, and since he is the almighty covenant God, we can expect him to do so repeatedly until Jesus returns.
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