“Strangers shall fade away, and they shall be afraid out of their close places.”
This verse is part of a larger psalm that David composed as a song of thanksgiving and praise to God for delivering him from his enemies and granting him victory. The psalm is recorded in 2 Samuel 22 and is very similar to Psalm 18. It is important to note that this psalm was written during a specific historical context, and the language used is poetic and metaphorical in nature.
Strangers shall fade away:In this context, “strangers” refers to foreign nations or enemies. David is expressing his confidence in God’s power to subdue and defeat his enemies. The phrase “fade away” suggests that these strangers will lose their strength, influence, and ultimately be defeated or destroyed.
They shall be afraid out of their close places:The term “close places” can be understood as strongholds, fortresses, or secure positions where the enemies take refuge. It implies that even in their well-fortified positions, the enemies will experience fear and trepidation. This can be seen as a consequence of God’s intervention and the realisation of His power.
Overall, this verse highlights David’s trust in God’s ability to bring down his enemies and protect him. It emphasises the transience of worldly power and the supremacy of God’s might. As the psalm unfolds, David continues to praise God for His faithfulness, righteousness, and deliverance.
It is worth noting that the poetic and metaphorical language used in this psalm should be interpreted in the context of its original composition and the author’s intent. The primary message is one of trust and thanksgiving, acknowledging God as the source of strength and protection in times of trouble.
By studying this verse, we can be encouraged to place our trust in God during challenging times, knowing that He has the power to overcome our enemies and bring about deliverance. It reminds us that God’s strength is unmatched and that He is capable of securing our safety and victory in the face of adversity.
