Psalm 34

Read Psalm 34

Helpful Background Information:

• When Psalm 34 was written, King David was on the run from Saul and went to a ruler whose proper name was Achish. Psalm 34 refers to him as Abimelech, which was likely a title given to Philistine rulers. 

• David had thought that he might be able to find refuge with this Philistine ruler, but he ended up getting himself into a sticky situation with the ruler wanting to hold him captive and possibly kill him. David’s solution was to act as though he had gone mad. For more on this story, read 1 Samuel 21:10-15.

• Through Psalm 34 there are multiple references to the blessings of the people who fear the Lord. In this, it might be tempting to assume that Christians will get whatever they want to bring comfort to ourselves. However, it is important to remember that our greatest needs are spiritual and are met only through Christ. 

Reflection Questions: 

• Read and chew on verse 18. How does this verse relate to Hagar and her situation? How does God’s care for David and Hagar add to your understanding of God’s heart?

• In your own walk of life, how can you ask God to change your heart in your circumstances to sound like Psalm 34?

• Take a moment to praise God as David does for what God has done in your life and how He has drawn near to you.