Psalm 60 is linked to an account of David’s victories in 2 Samuel 8 v1-14. Despite great victories David is very aware of his own and Israel’s weaknesses. He speaks clearly of their need of the Lord and how victory will only come if the lord marches out with them.

There is a real danger in the life of the church and in our own lives that our reliance is far too much on ourselves and on what we do. We can test how dependent we are on God on what proportion of our time we spend praying.

In psalm 61 David’s desire can be summarised with the request, “Lead me to the Rock that is higher than I.” Real dependence on God comes as we’re aware both of our own weakness and also the greatness of the Lord.

In this Psalm David expresses and great desire not just for help but for an experience of being in God’s presence (v4).

The King who is forever enthroned in God’s presence has to be Jesus rather than David (v6-7). Yet amazingly those who are in Christ, including David, will reign with Christ forever (2 Timothy 2 v12). This is truly a glorious prospect.