My Rock, My Fortress, My Deliverer

Second Samuel 22 is David's song of praise. David sang it on the day Yahweh delivered him from the hand of all his enemies and from the hand of Saul. It opens with a burst of names: Yahweh is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my rock in whom I take refuge; my shield, the horn of my salvation, my high tower, my refuge, and my savior.

David recalls danger as waves of death, floods of ungodliness, and the snares of death. He called on Yahweh, and his cry entered God's ears. In vivid poetry, the earth shakes, the heavens bow, and the Lord rides on a cherub and flies on the wings of the wind. He drew David out of many waters and brought him into a large place, because he delighted in him. David also speaks of God's fairness: with the merciful God shows himself merciful, and he saves the afflicted while bringing down the arrogant.

The final part of the song praises God for strength and victory. God is David's lamp, his way is perfect, and his word is tested. God made David's feet like hinds' feet and gave him the shield of salvation; his gentleness made David great. The song closes, Yahweh lives! Blessed be my rock! David promises to give thanks among the nations and celebrates God's loving kindness to his anointed, to David and his offspring forever. In the New Testament, Romans 15:9 says, Therefore I will give praise to you among the Gentiles and sing to your name, applying David's words to God's mercy reaching the Gentiles.