David, a Man After God’s HeartSample

A song of praise

“The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold and my refuge, my savior; You save me from violence.” (2 Samuel 22:2-3)

Many people realize that they need God when they are in trouble, but as soon as their problems are solved, they forget about Him. Not so David. The Lord rescued him from the hand of Saul and other enemies. In response, David wrote a song: “I will praise you, O LORD, among the nations, and sing praises to Your name” (2 Samuel 22:50).

David used various images to describe God as his Savior: the Lord is a rock, a shield, a stronghold.... David burst out in praise and thankfulness and described how the Lord saved him from his utterly desperate situation and gave him victory over his enemies. David recounted all this to thank God and to exhort others to praise Him too. But I think these songs also served to remind David himself of God’s power and grace, especially when he went through hard times again. Looking back on God’s salvation in the past would encourage him for the future.

Have you ever witnessed God’s salvation and help – either in your own life or in the lives of others around you? How could you try to actively remember these experiences, so they can help you put your trust in the Lord God for the future as well?