Bible Commentaries
2 Samuel 22

Verses 1-51

The character of David is revealed in the two psalms recorded here. In the first of these, found in this chapter, we find the deepest things concerning him. It may be well to note its main divisions, with the definite teaching of each.

1. Verses 2 Samuel 22:2-4. Jehovah is declared to be the Source of all strength.

2. Verses 2 Samuel 22:5-16. All deliverances are wrought directly by Jehovah Himself.

3. Verses 2 Samuel 22:17-25. Deliverance is wrought by Jehovah on the condition of righteousness realized in the conduct of His people.

4. Verses 2 Samuel 22:26-28. In these words we have revealed the principles of relationship between God and man. God is to man what man is to God.

5. Verses 2 Samuel 22:29-46. The singer here bears experimental testimony to the truth of the things he has celebrated in song.

6. Verses 2 Samuel 22:47-51. The psalm ends with a fine doxology, setting forth the praise of Jehovah.

Such convictions-of the absolute sovereignty of Jehovah, of His omnipotent power to deliver, of the necessity for obedience to His law, and of assurance that in the case of such obedience He ever acts for His people - constituted the underlying strength of David's character. In all probability this psalm was written before his sin, and if so, it will readily be understood how terrible was his sorrow when he recognized his failure.