Psalm 18:2

Commentary on Psalm 18:2 (NKJV) 

Psalm 18:2 (NKJV): “The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; My God, my strength, in whom I will trust; My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.” 

Introduction 

Psalm 18 is a song of thanksgiving attributed to David, celebrating God’s deliverance from his enemies and from the hand of Saul. This psalm is a powerful testimony of God’s protection, strength, and faithfulness. Psalm 18:2 provides profound insights into the nature of God and His relationship with His people. 

Exegesis of Psalm 18:2 

1. The Lord is my rock: God is often depicted as unchanging and steadfast. The metaphor of God as a rock signifies His immutability and reliability. Just as a rock provides a firm foundation, God is the unshakeable foundation of our faith. 

2. My fortress: A fortress is a place of refuge and protection. This imagery highlights God’s role as a protector who provides safety and security to His people. In modern Christian living, believers can find solace in knowing that God is their ultimate refuge. 

3. My deliverer: God is portrayed as a deliverer who rescues His people from danger and oppression. This aspect of God’s character is central understanding salvation, where God delivers His people from sin and its consequences through Jesus Christ. 

4. My God, my strength, in whom I will trust: This phrase emphasises the personal relationship between the believer and God. Trusting in God as one’s strength reflects a dependence on His power and grace. This trust is rooted in the doctrine of sola fide (faith alone), where faith in God’s promises is the means of receiving His grace. 

5. My shield: A shield is a defensive weapon that protects from attacks. God as a shield signifies His role in protecting believers from spiritual and physical harm. This aligns with the emphasis on God’s providence and His active involvement in the lives of His people. 

6. The horn of my salvation: The horn is a symbol of strength and power. In this context, it represents God’s power to save. Salvation is entirely the work of God, accomplished through the power of Christ’s atoning sacrifice. 

7. My stronghold: A stronghold is a place of safety and defence. This reinforces the idea of God as a protector and a source of security for His people. In contemporary Christian living, believers can find comfort in God’s unwavering protection and care. 

Application to Modern Christian Living 

Psalm 18:2 offers several practical applications for modern Christians: 

• Trust in God’s Unchanging Nature: Believers are encouraged to rely on God’s steadfastness and faithfulness, knowing that He is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8). 

• Seek Refuge in God: In times of trouble, Christians can find safety and peace in God’s presence, trusting Him to be their fortress and deliverer. 

• Depend on God’s Strength: Recognising that human strength is insufficient, believers are called to depend on God’s power and grace in all aspects of life. 

• Embrace God’s Protection: Understanding that God is their shield, Christians can face life’s challenges with confidence, knowing that God is their protector. 

• Celebrate God’s Salvation: Rejoicing in the salvation provided through Jesus Christ, believers are reminded of God’s power to save and His ongoing work in their lives. 

Bibliography 

1. The Holy Bible, New King James Version. Thomas Nelson, 1982. 

2. Calvin, John. Commentary on the Book of Psalms. Christian Classics Ethereal Library. Link 

3. Spurgeon, Charles H. The Treasury of David. Bible Hub. Link 

4. Westminster Confession of Faith. Reformed Standards. Link 

5. Reformation Study Bible. Ligonier Ministries. Link 

By reflecting on Psalm 18:2, believers can deepen their understanding of God’s character and His promises, leading to a more robust and resilient faith in their daily lives.