Psalm 28-29

“The LORD is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to him.” (Psalm 28:7, ESV)

David begins Psalm 28 worried that the LORD would not hear his prayer and remain silent. If that happened, then David would be like one going down to the pit.

Have you ever woke up worried? Maybe you suddenly realize that you did not do something important. Maybe a friend or family member is heavy on your heart. Life is plagued with such anxieties, fears and burdens. These are compounded by our own human weaknesses because we don’t always react as we should. David was crying out for mercy and help (v. 2), but we don’t know why. We only know that he was afraid God would drag him off with the wicked.

But then he pivots in verse 6:

“Blessed be the LORD! For he has heard the voice of my pleas for mercy.” (Psalm 28:6, ESV)

Somehow David was assured that the LORD did hear his prayer. I have experienced this. I have been anxious and fearful, but as I worship God, share my anxieties with Him, and confess my sins, I begin to experience His peace and assurance that He accepts me and is merciful toward me. I give God my cares, and He gives me His peace. I know that He has the situation under control.

In verse 7, David makes the declaration of faith. “The LORD is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts.” Anxiety and fear can arise when we place trust in ourselves or others, and that trust is broken. But David had confidence that the LORD was his strength and shield. God would strengthen him when he was weak and protect him from the plots of the wicked. Even when it seemed that God was silent, He was still working behind the scenes and would rescue him in His time. Therefore, David rejoiced in song, giving God thanks.

This psalm reminds me of Paul’s words to the Philippians:

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6–7, NKJV)

Instead of worrying, give your worries to God and enjoy His peace!