A SONG OF PRAISE. 2nd Samuel 22 Praise is not only a song about God from the hearts of His people to bless them, but it is also a song to God to give honor and glory to Him. When we focus our hearts on God, we will find much to praise Him for and reasons to give Him personal praise. We can find many of His characteristics when we read His word. Many of His attributes are revealed to us as we meditate on Him, thank Him for who He is and all His blessings to us, and express our appreciation for Him and His willingness to have a relationship with us. David wrote this song of praise after having experienced God in His life.
Verses one through four are praise for the Person of the Lord Himself. He is the Lord God who delivers His people. There is a list of titles David gives the Lord. He is "my Fortress," a Place of Safety. He is "my Deliverer," a Provider of liberty. He is "my Rock," a Person of strength. He is "my Shield." a Power to protect. He is "my Horn," a Preserver from enemies. He is "my High Tower (stronghold)," a Position to occupy. He is "my Refuge," a Protector against opposition. He is "my Savior," a Promise who keeps us.
Verses five through seven praise God, who hears the cry of those in trouble all around. He is the Lord God who hears those who call upon Him. Enemies are all around God's people, who may or may not be seen or known. Even death itself is near, seeking to claim us. He is our God who delivers us from mortal danger.
Verses eight through twenty praise God for His power in nature. In his song of praise, David mentions an earthquake, a volcanic mountain, violent storms, lightning, and wind. It is so gratifying that the Lord brought him into a large, spacious place of safety from his enemies. God’s power is unlimited.
Then, in verses twenty-one through twenty-eight, God's knowledge of human character is praised. The Lord delivers believers because of their commitment to righteousness. Unbelievers are exposed for who and what they are. God is righteous and gracious in His dealings with believers and unbelievers. He is just and merciful. He has a moral basis for the deliverance of sinful people and declaring them righteous because of the sacrificial death of Christ on our behalf.
From verses twenty-nine through forty-three, David praises God's power given to those who fear Him. God makes provision for all that we need to overcome enemies and obstacles. Those who know Him can do what is beyond normal, can do what they should do, be both strong and gentle, and overcome enemies.
The song of David concludes with praise for God-given grace to rule well and be victorious in leadership. Grace is necessary in using delegated authority. We need strength and power to deal with evil. David promises to give God all the glory for how He uses the one he appointed and gives grateful thanks to the Lord for His mercy and kindness.