David’s psalms show that both before and during his reign as king of Israel he endured severe setbacks and enjoyed smashing successes. Regardless of circumstances David put his trust in God. Psalm 9 particularly demonstrates his reaction to God’s care for him. We would do well to imitate David in the following ways:
1) “I will praise You, O Lord, with my whole heart” (v. 1a). The word praise includes giving thanks as well as lauding (magnifying, extoling) God. David often pleaded with God to help him. Here we see that when God answered his prayers, David remembered to thank and praise Him, not as a formality, but from the heart.
2) “I will tell of all Your marvelous works” (v. 1b). Here David pledges to recount, rehearse, and declare the mighty acts of God. Many times, David had experienced God’s deliverance first-hand. In a very real way, he had a story to tell. He also knew the wonderful things God had done for His people in centuries past (think of the exodus from Egypt and the conquest of Canaan). David knew his people needed to remember what God had done. We ought to teach these same things today as well as recounting the blessings that God, in His providence, gives us now.
3) “I will be glad and rejoice in You” (v. 2a). These two words have practically the same meaning: to exult. David rejoiced not merely because his circumstances were favorable, but because he was thrilled to be in fellowship with God and under His care. So ought we to be!
4) “I will sing praise to Your Name, O Most High” (v. 2b). One natural result of thanking and extolling God, and of happily recounting the great things He has done, is to sing His praise. This is not limited to singing while assembled with other believers, though that is certainly one opportunity. Even if you’re alone, sing! God will listen. “Is anyone cheerful, let Him sing psalms” (James 5:13).
Sing and be happy today!
–Joe Slater
