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Psalms 18:48 meaning

God powerfully preserves those who call upon Him, offering deliverance in every trouble.

He delivers me from my enemies; Surely You lift me above those who rise up against me; You rescue me from the violent man. (v.48) This heartfelt statement appears as King David celebrates the LORD’s power to save him from peril. David was the second king of Israel (reigning circa 1010-970 BC), and he often faced mortal threats—particularly from rival nations, hostile forces, and even from within his own family. By proclaiming, “He delivers me from my enemies,” David acknowledges that God’s intervention is the true source of his victory, not merely his own cunning or military might.

When David says, Surely You lift me above those who rise up against me (v.48), he testifies to the extraordinary grace that protected him while exalting him above his foes. This phrase communicates a vivid picture of God placing David on higher ground, safe from the destructive plans of those who would harm him. Such language echoes similar biblical themes where God rescues His people from overwhelming odds and demonstrates His lovingkindness toward them (seen throughout the Psalms and reflected in many accounts of divine deliverance, such as Jonah’s rescue or the Israelites’ protection as they journeyed to the Promised Land).

David concludes by praising, You rescue me from the violent man (v.48). This exultant affirmation reminds believers that God’s deliverance extends to every difficulty they might experience, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual. In the broader story of Scripture, Jesus Himself embodies ultimate rescue, overcoming the far greater threat of sin and death (Romans 6:23). Just as David was saved from a violent man, all who trust in Christ can be saved from eternal separation from God, reflecting the same might and mercy that the LORD displayed for David.

Psalms 18:48