Psalm 61

This psalm of David is a call from the ends of the earth. The psalmist must be feeling very far away from God. Perhaps he was physically far from Jerusalem, or he may have just felt many miles away. He longs to be sheltered by the "rock that is higher than I." The term "rock" has an enriched meaning to David, who spent much time hiding in the rocks of Israel -- caves, crags and overhangs in the rock gave David shelter many times in the past, just as God had done. But this rock is not just something David can use and climb upon. It is not just for the times when David is feeling low. Even when David is on top of the world, the Rock is still higher.

Interesting that David asks to be led to the rock. One would think he would know the way. We are led to the Rock of Christ Jesus by the Holy Spirit.

The metaphors for God are numerous in this psalm. He is a refuge. He is a strong tower. He is the provider of a tent. He is a sheltering mother bird.

When in verse 6, David asks God to increase the days of the king's life, he is apparently speaking of himself. Yet the answer to this request is also found in David's decendents, especially in Christ Jesus.