Psalm 108: A National Hymn

Psalm 108 would appear to be a compilation of Psalms 57 and 60.

The first five verses of Psalm 108 mirror Psalm 57:7–11.

The last eight verses of Psalm 108 replicate Psalm 60:5–12.

It is possible these two psalms were combined into one song to be sung during temple services. The song may also have been sung during national festivals to recount the mercies of God to Israel. David’s heart is fixed firmly on obedience to the Lord (Psalm 108:1).

This psalm is difficult to place in the historical context of David’s life as it combines several earlier psalms into this new one. David here offers up all his talent—“my glory”—to praise the Lord (v. 1). Early in the morning, he rises to sing praises to the Lord.

“The early hours of the morning spent in private devotion provide strength for the day’s duties and a safeguard against temptation. The Saviour often rose to pray a great while before day [Mark 3:13].” David cannot hold back his songs of praise and sings them in public.

He is not ashamed of his devotion to God. He therefore praises God to the high heavens. Likewise, God’s mercy cannot be contained to just the earth (Psalm 108:3–5).

God had often interposed to deliver David from peril.

David sings of deliverance by Him who loves all humankind (v. 6).

God had defeated Israel’s enemies.

The haughty nation of Moab, having been brought low, is compared to a vessel used to wash one’s feet (v. 9). The Philistines had been conquered and no longer threatened Israel (2 Samuel 8:1). David had conquered the strong cities of the Edomites and placed garrisons (v. 14). God had not forsaken His people. He had come to their aid whenever they were in trouble. God had inspired them to triumph over their enemies (Psalm 108:10–13).

Likewise, we have nothing to fear though our battles against sin are fierce. In Christ, the victory has already been won! “Lead on, O King Eternal, / The day of march has come; / Henceforth in fields of conquest / Thy tents shall be our home; / Through days of preparation / Thy grace has made us strong, / And now, O King Eternal, / We lift our battle song.”