Psalms 62 — Tyndale Study Notes
Ps.51.1-65.13
These psalms of David share a common thread in their reflection on the experience of evil. In Ps 51, the psalmist confesses the evil he has done and asks God’s forgiveness. Psalms 52–64 lament specific evils that David experienced. A song of praise (Ps 65) brings David’s laments to an end.
Ps.61.1-63.11
In these royal prayers, the psalmist longs for God’s presence. All three psalms concern themselves with the king’s security.
Ps.62.1-12
This psalm expresses confidence in the king and offers prayer for him. The king rests in God despite his difficulties. Although his deceptive and powerful adversaries push hard against him, he remains undaunted. He encourages himself and his people to trust in God and to see their human adversaries from God’s perspective, where they appear frail, fleeting, and deceptive (62:9).
Ps.62.1
title Jeduthun: See 1 Chr 25:1; also in Pss 39 and 77.
Ps.62.3-4
The enemies desire to topple the king with lies and cunning.
Ps.62.4
My high position refers to the royal throne.
Ps.62.5-8
The psalmist encourages himself and others to place their hope in God.
Ps.62.9-12
Unlike God, humans are transient beings. Even when they thrive, their prosperity is fleeting.
Ps.62.9
not what they appear to be: People often try to look stronger and better than they are.
Ps.62.10
The crime of extortion means using intimidation and threats to make others give up what is theirs, while stealing is taking what belongs to others.
Ps.62.11-12
Strength and unfailing love remain in balance only in God. He cares for his people by ridding the world of evildoers (see 1:6).