Psalm 18
Theme
The LORD is My Rock and My Fortress
Outline
1-6, David in Danger 7-19, Yahweh in Action 20-29, The Character of David and Yahweh 30-45, David in Conquest 46-50, Yahweh in Praise
Key Verse
(18:1) I will love You, O LORD, my strength. (18:2) The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.
Notes
Psalm 18 features a chiastic structure, where the beginning and end correspond, and inner sections reflect and develop each other. David expresses his love for Yahweh and acknowledges Yahweh's protection (18:1–3), concluding with Yahweh granting him victory due to His love (18:47–50). David recounts threats from Death and Sheol (18:5–6) but overcomes them because Yahweh lives (18:46). His cry for help (18:6) contrasts with the subjugation of foreign nations (18:43–45). The psalm highlights Yahweh's intervention (18:7–15) and David's righteousness (18:20–24), culminating in themes of rescue and empowerment. The structure can be summarized in five sections, detailing David's danger, Yahweh's action, their character, David's conquest, and praise for Yahweh.