When our children were toddlers, and we brought them into an unfamiliar situation, like a wedding or graduation party, they would often hide behind my legs when someone tried to talk to them. When little ones feel uncomfortable, they look for safety by clinging to a parent.
In Psalm 57, David reflects on the time he had “fled from Saul, in the cave.” This could be the cave of Adullam (1 Samuel 22) or the cave in the Desert of Ein Gedi (1 Samuel 24). David prays, “Have mercy on me, my God, have mercy on me, for in you I take refuge” (57:1). It would seem that the cave was his refuge. But David knew better. God is a far more secure place to hide. David describes God as a mother bird who protects her young by spreading her wings (v. 1).
David was in a difficult situation. He describes his flight from Saul as being “in the midst of lions; ...men whose teeth are spears and arrows, whose tongues are sharp swords” (v. 4). Yet in the midst of this violent onslaught, David expresses confidence in God’s great love and faithfulness (v. 10). Even though David has not experienced deliverance yet, his confidence in God makes him want to break out in praise, “I will sing and make music, Awake, my soul! Awake, harp and lyre! I will awaken the dawn” (vv. 7–8). David wanted others to join him in this praise. He called out to other nations and peoples to hear about the glory of God (v. 9). In a world where each nation worshiped their own deities, David affirmed that the God of Israel is actually the God over all nations and peoples. His glory is over “all the earth” (v. 11).
>> We all long for safety and security. Life is full of potential dangers and disappointments. David models for us a way to lament as well as express confidence in God’s faithfulness. The Lord is our refuge and strength.
Pray with Us
David was hiding in a cave, but he knew his real refuge was God alone. May we as believers find our security, protection, and confidence in the Lord, and not in the things of this world.
BY Ryan Cook
Dr. Ryan Cook has taught at Moody Bible Institute since 2012. He earned his bachelor of arts in Bible and Theology from Moody and his master of arts in Old Testament from Grand Rapids Theological Seminary. He has worked in Christian education and served as a pastor in Michigan for seven years. During his time as a professor at Moody, he earned his doctorate from Asbury Theological Seminary. He now lives with his wife, Ashley, and their three children in the Chicagoland area.