Psalm 18:1-3

STP Devotional for the Week of 09/28/26

This week we’re going to look at what the psalm our key verse comes from is celebrating. A psalm is a sacred song or poem used in worship. Psalms of praise such as Psalm 18 usually encourage worshippers to honor God’s greatness. These psalms include the reasons why the psalmist is praising God and calls for others to worship as well.

David wrote Psalm 18 for the LORD after God saved David from the hands of both his enemies and from Saul. His first words reflect not only his attitude of gratefulness, but also his admiration of and loyalty to God.

I love you, O LORD, my strength. (Ps. 18:1)

David starts the psalm from a place of worship and thankfulness. He knows the battle he’s just won he’s secured because he put his faith in the LORD who delivered him. He also wants God to know that he acknowledges God’s power and ability to handle all situations. He knows he can’t do this on his own.

Then we get to our key verse:

The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer,

my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge,

my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. (Ps. 18:2)

David then celebrates the attributes of God that carried him through his trial – the LORD is rock, his fortress, his deliverer, his refuge, his shield, his stronghold. David wants us to know the LORD is worthy to be praised.

He also wants us to know why he is worshipping – because the Lord alone is worthy.

I call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised, and I am saved from my enemies. (Ps. 18:3)

Why is God worthy to be praised? Because He saves us from our enemies.

Why does He save us? Because He loves us.

How do we know He loves us? Because He sent His son Jesus to earth to die for our sins.

How do we not stop a thousand times a day to thank Him?

As we move into the week ahead, let’s focus on remembering that God is our stronghold – our refuge in times of trouble. Remember to say, “I love you, Lord!” and “You alone are worthy to be praised!”

AT HOME:

• As you start your prayers this week, begin by saying, “I love you, Lord!”

• Practice thankfulness that the Lord is your stronghold, protecting you from your enemies.