Psalm 27, Part 1: Whom Shall I Fear?

Psalm 27 was also written by David as he was taking refuge in caves and mountain strongholds. Many of the psalms written during this period in his life express total confidence in the ability of the Lord to save, no matter the circumstances.

This psalm has been called the Tonic Psalm because David misses communal worship, the music of choirs, and the sacred service. The psalm is divided into three parts: Verses 1–6 place confidence in God to deliver His servant. Verses 7–12 are a cry for help from present trouble. Verses 13, 14 bring the psalm to a triumphant close with the assurance that trust in God is not misplaced. David is fearless because God is his light and salvation (vv. 1–3).

Psalm 27:4 and Psalm 23:6 are very close in wording and express the same sentiment. David longs to make a closer, more vibrant connection with his Savior.

He wants a close relationship that will never end.

He writes, “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever” (Psalm 23:6).

“One thing have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to enquire in his temple” (Psalm 27:4). David longs to be in the presence of the Lord at all times.

He wants to wrap himself in the love and kindness he feels when connected with his Creator. David feels safest in the presence of God, his rock and salvation (v. 5).

“There is joy and consolation for the true-hearted, faithful Christian, that the world knows not of. To them it is a mystery. The Christian’s hope is big with immortality and full of glory. It reacheth to that within the veil, and is as an anchor to the soul, both sure and steadfast. And when the storm of God’s wrath shall come upon the ungodly, this hope will not fail them, but they are hid as in the secret of His pavilion.” “And now shall mine head be lifted up above mine enemies round about me: therefore will I offer in his tabernacle sacrifices of joy; I will sing, yea, I will sing praises unto the LORD” (Psalm 27:6).