Lessons to Be Learned

A Lesson from History

Heading gives us the clues for the time frame

English Standard Version Psalm 54

TO THE CHOIRMASTER: WITH STRINGED INSTRUMENTS. A MASKIL OF DAVID, WHEN THE ZIPHITES WENT AND TOLD SAUL, “IS NOT DAVID HIDING AMONG US?”

Saul was the King of Israel

He had displeased God by taking an action that was not his place to do

…Offering a sacrifice rather than waiting for Samuel

Samuel had then anointed David as King

David was content to let God’s timing play out

…Never took an action against Saul

>>>Yet, Saul on numerous occasions tried to kill David

…In spite of that, David spared Saul’s life on two occasions

>>>The cave in this account, and in his battlefield camp later

Now, David has been hiding in the hill country of the Ziphites

…They are throwing him under the bus

…Making his location known to Saul

>>>Not because David was Evil

...>>>apparently for the purpose of gaining favor with Saul

A Lesson in Faith

Seen in David’s prayer, vv. 1-3

He address his prayer to God

>Recites God’s history—the concept of the NAME

Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary Names of God

The truth of God’s character is focused in His name. The divine name reveals God’s power, authority, and holiness.

>>Calls to mind God’s POWER

He is in a desperate situation…but trusts God…not relying on any of his own strengths or skills

For the God who is omnipotent, the current situation was but a small problem

A Lesson in Theology

vv. 4-5

Helper

Upholder —image of someone/thing to lean on/against

He possesses faithfulness—synonomous with firmness or truth

A Lesson in Worship