A confession of trust in God by the LORD's anointed when threatened by a powerfully backed internal conspiracy.
Scripture References:
st. 1 = vv. 1-4
st. 2 =vv. 5-8
st.3=vv.9-12
Psalm 62 suggests that a strong conspiracy aims to topple the king from his throne. It even hints that the king is old and no longer vigorous (v. 3)–which may have occasioned the revolt. Such treachery and rebellion plagued King David in his old age (2 Sam. 15-20). Though threatened by a host of conspirators, including powerful elements in the land, the king "finds rest in God," his rock and refuge (st. 1-2), and exhorts the people to trust in the LORD, whose protection is sure (st. 2). These truths bring confidence when God's people are threatened: although our "mortal strength is vain," God is strong and loving and faithful (st. 3).
David James Diephouse (b. Grand Haven, MI, 1947) versified this psalm in 1986 for the . Educated at Calvin College, Grand Rapids, Michigan, and Princeton University, Diephouse taught at Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey, from 1974 to 1976. Since 1976 he has been professor of history at Calvin College.
In addition to a number of essays, Diephouse wrote Pastors and Pluralism in Wurttemberg., 1918-1933. A pianist and harpsichordist, Diephouse has served on the worship committee of the Church of the Servant, Grand Rapids, and on the Christian Reformed Church denominational worship committee.
Liturgical Use:
Many occasions in which the church is under threat from human powers and wants to express its confidence in the Lord.
--Psalter Hymnal Handbook
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