Psalms 18:18

“They prevented me in the day of my calamity: but the Lord was my stay.”

Psalm 18:18 (KJV) says: “They prevented me in the day of my calamity: but the Lord was my stay.”

Context of Psalm 18:Psalm 18 is attributed to King David and is known as a song of deliverance. It is a psalm of thanksgiving in which David expresses his gratitude to God for delivering him from the hands of his enemies, including King Saul. David composed this psalm during a time of great distress and danger in his life, and it reflects his reliance on God’s strength and protection.

The phrase “They prevented me”:The word “prevent” in this context means “to go before” or “to come upon unexpectedly.” David is expressing that his enemies came against him before he even realised it. They confronted him in his time of calamity or trouble. This could refer to various situations in David’s life when he faced opposition, persecution, or danger.

“The day of my calamity”:David refers to a specific time or period of calamity, which indicates a time of great distress, trouble, or crisis. It may refer to different incidents in David’s life, such as the attempts on his life by Saul or other enemies. David recognises that he was vulnerable and faced imminent danger during these times.

“The Lord was my stay”:In the midst of his calamity and when his enemies seemed overwhelming, David acknowledges that it was the Lord who provided support, refuge, and deliverance. The word “stay” refers to something that upholds or sustains. In this case, it signifies that God was David’s support, his source of strength and protection. Despite the attacks and the intensity of the situation, David found stability and security in God.

Key Takeaways:

• Calamity and opposition may come unexpectedly, even when we are in a vulnerable state.
• Difficult times can test our faith and make us realise our dependence on God.
• God is our refuge and strength in times of trouble. He is the one who sustains us and provides the necessary support to overcome adversity.

This verse encourages us to trust in God’s faithfulness and seek refuge in Him during challenging circumstances. Just as David found comfort and deliverance in God, we too can rely on Him to be our source of strength and help in times of need.