He delivers me from my enemies. Yes, You lift me up above those who rise up against me. You rescue me from the violent man.
David summarizes his experience of deliverance. God did not save him only once, but continually was his Deliverer and Protector. The phrase “You lift me up” shows that the Lord brings him out of a condition in which his adversaries seemed to have the advantage over him. David also attributes his rescue from a violent man to God. For the believer, this is a reminder that after long trials one can look back and see an entire course of God’s preserving care. That remembrance strengthens confidence also for coming difficulties. Yet the story of deliverance should not keep our attention only on the people who harmed us. David’s gaze finally turns to the One who delivered him. At the center of our testimony as well should be what the Lord did for us, not only what people did against us. Remembering God’s saving works draws the heart away from vengeance and leads it toward gratitude.