A Steadfast Heart

Psalm 57: My heart is steadfast, O God, my heart is steadfast; I will sing and give praise.

Knowing the setting or context of a passage brings clarity and understanding beyond just the words inspired by the Holy Spirit in the author.  This particular poem (Michtam) by David was penned during the time Saul was pursuing him, specifically when he was hidden in the cave of Adullam.

David unveils a key to maintaining a steadfast heart while hiding from our pursuers; whether they be physical, spiritual, emotional or relational.  Fear drives us into Adullam’s cave, surrounded by malcontents; yet have our heart, our vision.  These malcontents have gathered in hope that their personal issues will be reversed.  In David’s case many of them ultimately were named as “mighty men”, yet many departed when their interests weren’t served as they had expected.

Self-serving never sees beyond “self” and cannot “sing” or “praise” the Lord.  They’re good at complaining, murmuring; but their pain covers their vision for a life time of liberty while in pursuit for the ease of immediate and present relief.

The way to keep our hope fixed on that which transcends our momentary affliction is to offer the “sacrifice of praise” and glorify the Lord.  Twice in this brief Psalm David declares “Be exalted, O God, above the heavens; Let Your glory be above all the earth” (vss. 5 & 11).

A steadfast heart is the result of continuous worship and praise of the King of kings and Lord of lords.