Skip to main content

    Psalms 3 (KJV)

    Read Psalms chapter 3 in the King James Version of the Holy Bible.

    Psalms 3

    Deep Verse Commentaries in This Chapter

    Psalm 3:3

    "But thou, O LORD, art a shield for me; my glory, and the lif…"

    Explore Topics Related to Psalms 3

    Continue your study with related content from across our library:

    Commentary

    Psalm 16:1 Commentary

    In-depth study • Trust in God's Preservation

    Personality Quiz

    Which Psalm Writer Are You?

    Free KJV quiz on the writers of the Psalms — David, Asaph, the sons of Korah or

    Commentary

    Psalm 62:8 Commentary

    In-depth study • Trust & Prayer

    Bible Quiz

    Psalms Quiz

    Hymns, prayers, and praises from Israel's songbook.

    Q&A

    Why Are the Psalms Important?

    Prayer & Worship

    Prayer

    David's Prayer of Repentance

    A heartfelt cry for mercy inspired by Psalm 51.

    Psalms 3 Summary

    Psalm 3 is attributed to David when he fled from his son Absalom. Despite being surrounded by enemies, David expresses unwavering confidence in God as his shield and sustainer. He declares that he can sleep peacefully because the Lord watches over him.

    This psalm moves from a cry of distress to a bold declaration of faith. David acknowledges the many who rise against him, yet affirms that salvation belongs to the Lord. It is a model prayer for anyone facing overwhelming opposition.

    Key Themes

    Trust in adversityGod as protectorConfidence in prayerDeliverance from enemies

    Key Verses in Psalms 3

    "But you, LORD, are a shield around me, my glory, the One who lifts my head high."

    — Psalms 3:3

    A powerful declaration of God's protective and restorative nature.

    "I lie down and sleep; I wake again, because the LORD sustains me."

    — Psalms 3:5

    Demonstrates complete trust in God even amid danger.

    Life Application

    When troubles multiply and voices of doubt surround you, remember that God is your shield. You can rest peacefully knowing He sustains you through every challenge.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    When was Psalm 3 written?

    It was written by David during his flight from his rebellious son Absalom, as recorded in 2 Samuel 15-17.

    What is the main message of Psalm 3?

    Despite overwhelming opposition, God is a faithful protector who grants peace and deliverance to those who trust Him.

    Psalm 3 Commentary & Reflection

    Trust
    Trusting, resolute

    Best read for: Facing betrayal, sleepless nights, anxiety

    Overview of Psalm 3: A Morning Prayer of Trust

    Written when David fled from his son Absalom, Psalm 3 is a prayer of trust amid overwhelming opposition. Though many enemies rise against him and say God will not deliver him, David declares that the Lord is his shield, his glory, and the lifter of his head. He lay down and slept in peace because the Lord sustained him, and he calls on God to arise and save.

    Key Themes

    Trust
    Deliverance
    Peace in Danger
    God as Shield

    Key Verses to Remember

    “But thou, O LORD, art a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter up of mine head.”
    — Psalm 3:3 (KJV)
    “I laid me down and slept; I awaked; for the LORD sustained me.”
    — Psalm 3:5 (KJV)

    Reflection

    David slept peacefully while an army pursued him. That's not denial — it's trust. When circumstances scream anxiety, can you lay your head down knowing God sustains you?

    Historical Context

    The superscription attributes this psalm to David when he fled from his son Absalom (2 Samuel 15-18). This was one of the darkest moments in David's life—betrayed by his own child, forced from his throne, weeping as he climbed the Mount of Olives barefoot. Yet even in this crisis, David found strength to sleep peacefully, trusting in God's protection.

    How to Apply Psalm 3 Today

    When betrayal or family conflict shakes your world, this psalm teaches that honest prayer is the first step to peace. Before bed tonight, bring your anxieties to God specifically. Name what threatens you, then consciously release each worry into His hands. God sustained David through the night—He will sustain you too.

    A Prayer from Psalm 3

    Lord, even when enemies surround me and people say there is no help for me in You, I will lift my head because You are my shield. Sustain me through this night and wake me with renewed courage. I will not fear ten thousands who set themselves against me, for You have never failed me. Amen.

    Read the full Psalm 3 devotional →
    Read the full summary of Psalms

    Free Bible widgets and more ways to read