Psalm 28

1. Many times in the psalms David refers to God as “a rock.” In verse 1, though, David refers to God as “MY rock.” We need to have that same confidence in the Father.

2. Verse 3 is interesting to me. David is suggesting that God–a loving God–will punish some, and he does not want to be in that number. Sadly, many today teach that a loving God could not possibly punish.

3. The end of verse 3 speaks of those who are evil, having “evil in their hearts.” We are taught many places in the Bible that sin (evil) begins with our thoughts and attitudes.

4. Verse 4 again makes reference to the idea of exact retribution; especially the end of the verse.

5. The end of verse 5 is interesting to me. After speaking of the evil some do, David says, “[God] will tear them down and build them up no more.” David could be insinuating that God aids everyone at some point, but that, after a while, He stops helping those who will not come to Him.

6. Verse 7 gives two great descriptions of God. He is our strength and our shield. In other words, God provides our strength, but also our protection so we can maintain that strength. We are not really strong at all (isn’t that what “Jesus Loves Me” teaches?).

7. The final phrase is reminiscent of the 23rd Psalm, but actually goes a step further. Not only is God called a “shepherd” here, but David asks Him to “carry” His people. This step was only taken by shepherds when some sheep needed tender care. God is willing to do that for us, even today, if we are one of His sheep.