Overview (NET) Psalm 34. In this song of thanksgiving the psalmist praises God for delivering him from distress. He encourages others to be loyal to the Lord, tells them how to please God, and assures them that the Lord protects his servants.
Structure (EBC)
I. Thanksgiving for God’s Goodness and Justice (vv. 1–7)
A. Individual and Communal Praise (vv. 1–3)
B. Individual and Communal Experiences (vv. 4–7)
1. v.1-3
Repeated
a. the length of the praise
I will praise the LORD at all times;
my mouth will continually praise him.
(EBC) He blesses the Lord for the acts and words that bring him “praise.” He calls attention to what God has done rather than boastfully point to his own works and accomplishments (cf. 49:6; 105:3). The praise of God is continual, God-centered, and the product of a grateful heart
b. the magnitude of the praise
2 I will boast in the LORD;
let the oppressed BDAG-poor, weak and afflicted Israel (usually rendered meek) hear and rejoice.
3 Magnify the LORD with me.
Let us praise his name together.
(BKC) He resolved to praise God continually so that the afflicted would rejoice. But here he called for all the people to exalt the LORD with him.
How can we see God as great and magnify Him? When we see ourselves as poor, week and afflicted.
2. v.4-7
Repeated
4 I sought the LORD’s help and he answered me;
he delivered me from all my fears.
5 Look to him and be radiant;
do not let your faces be ashamed.
6 This oppressed man cried out and the LORD heard;
he saved him from all his troubles.
7 The angel of the LORD camps around
the LORD’s loyal followers and delivers them.
(BKC) 34:4–6. David here recorded the report of his deliverance. Because he cried and was delivered (cf. “delivers” in vv. 7, 17, 19), he was convinced that God’s people are never put to shame
What was my reason to praise the LORD?
What were the fears of David when he was recognized by the servants of Achish? Not only he could have killed by them, but he was there to escape the chasing of Saul. He faced the pressure from both ends.
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