This is the first of the 'Davidic' Psalms. It is a morning prayer as Psalms 3:6 suggests. The heading of the Ps. provides a historical setting for it in the revolt of Absalom, and it is the only Ps. specifically dated at that time. There are many features in that revolt (2 Samuel 16-18) which suit the circumstances to which the Psalmist refers. He speaks of the increasing number of his enemies (cp. 2 Samuel 17:11), of the contempt in which many held him (cp. 2 Samuel 16:7-10), of the danger in which he lay (cp. 2 Samuel 17:2), and of his preservation by Jehovah (cp. 2 Samuel 17:14). The Ps. contains the Psalmist's description of his foes (1, 2); his inward assurance of God's help (3, 4); his statement of his present experience (5, 6); and his prayer for complete deliverance and national blessing (7, 8).
Related Commentaries of Psalms 3:1
Psalms 3:1-8
1 LORD, how are they increased that trouble me! many are they that rise up against me.
2 Many there be which say of my soul, There is no help for him in God. Selah.
3 But thou, O LORD, art a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter up of mine head.
4 I cried unto the LORD with my voice, and he heard me out of his holy hill. Selah.
5 I laid me down and slept; I awaked; for the LORD sustained me.
6 I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people, that have set themselves against me round about.
7 Arise, O LORD; save me, O my God: for thou hast smitten all mine enemies upon the cheek bone; thou hast broken the teeth of the ungodly.
8 Salvation belongeth unto the LORD: thy blessing is upon thy people. Selah.