A Morning Prayer of Trust in God

Psalm 3 belongs to King David and is entitled “A morning prayer of trust in God.” It is a psalm that teaches us many spiritual lessons, and the main truth it highlights is this: salvation belongs to the Lord and not to ourselves. David wrote this psalm during one of the most difficult moments of his life, when he fled from his own son Absalom. It is a psalm born out of anguish, fear, danger, and sorrow, yet it is filled with confidence in God. Through David’s words we learn how to trust God when everything around us seems to collapse.

1 Lord, how are they increased that trouble me! many are they that rise up against me.

2 Many there be which say of my soul, There is no help for him in God. Selah.

3 But thou, O Lord, art a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter up of mine head.

4 I cried unto the Lord with my voice, and he heard me out of his holy hill. Selah.

5 I laid me down and slept; I awaked; for the Lord sustained me.

6 I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people, that have set themselves against me round about.

7 Arise, O Lord; save me, O my God: for thou hast smitten all mine enemies upon the cheek bone; thou hast broken the teeth of the ungodly.

8 Salvation belongeth unto the Lord: thy blessing is upon thy people. Selah.

Psalm 3:1–8

This is not necessarily the exact prayer we voice every morning when we wake up, yet it is a beautiful model for our daily devotion. First, we must understand the context: David suffered greatly during the reign of King Saul and afterward throughout his kingship. He was often persecuted by envy and hatred, even though he was a loyal, faithful, and honorable man. Many rose against him unjustly, and this psalm reflects that experience of being surrounded by adversaries.

David begins by telling God how many enemies surround him. The opposition was so intense that people openly said, “God will not deliver him.” This is similar to what was said of our Lord Jesus Christ as He hung on the cross. The mockers challenged Him, asking where His God was, doubting His deliverance. In David’s case and in Christ’s case, the wicked assumed that visible suffering meant God had abandoned His servant. Yet they were wrong.

Despite the overwhelming threats, David shows an extraordinary attitude of trust. He declares that the Lord is his shield—his protector, defender, and refuge. God was the One who lifted David’s head when shame and fear tried to push it down. How valuable it is when, in moments of distress, we recognize that God is with us. No matter how many enemies rise against us, if God is on our side, no one can stand against His power. David boldly states, “I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people.” This is not arrogance—it is faith. He acknowledges that nothing is impossible for God and that adversity is no match for divine strength.

David also shows us the peace that comes from trusting God. He says, “I laid me down and slept; I awaked; for the Lord sustained me.” Only someone who is truly resting in God can sleep in the midst of danger. David was surrounded by enemies, but he still slept peacefully because he knew that God Himself upheld him. This verse should encourage us: even in seasons of fear, uncertainty, or trial, God sustains His children.

Then we come to the most important conclusion of the psalm: “Salvation belongeth unto the Lord.” David recognizes that deliverance, rescue, victory, restoration—all of it comes from God alone. We often burden ourselves unnecessarily by thinking that we must solve everything on our own. In our day-to-day struggles, we forget that the answer, the solution, and the salvation from our troubles rest only and exclusively in God. He alone can deliver us from danger, from sin, from fear, and from every spiritual enemy.

Through this article we invite you to trust in the salvation that comes from the one true and living God. May we understand, especially in difficult times, that He is a shield around us. No matter how overwhelming the circumstances may appear, God surrounds His people with His protection. As Charles Spurgeon beautifully said, “When I cannot see Him, I will shelter myself under the shadow of His wings.” May this truth strengthen your heart today, and may Psalm 3 become a reminder that God is our defender, our sustainer, and the source of our salvation.