This Psalm may have been written when the Ark of the Covenant was brought to Jerusalem. David’s picture of God is that of the Divine warrior who is on the march. He begins by speaking of the wicked being driven away like smoke or being like wax melted before a fire (v1-2). The defeat of the wicked means the deliverance of the righteous (v3).

God’s deliverance and care for His people is to be an abject of praise (v4-6). There is reference here to the Lord’s leading of Israel through the wilderness to their new home (v6-10). The language speaks of God marching powerfully and triumphantly. This is an encouraging reminder that we serve not a weak but rather the all-powerful God.

The woman shared the spoils and speak of what the Lord has done (v11-13). If Israel did this, over victories in battle, how much more should we speak of the victory of Christ at the cross and empty tomb?

Jerusalem was to be a place where the Lord’s exploits were celebrated both for the encouragement of His people (v24-27), but also for the drawing of the nations (v30-35). The work of Gospel ministry must always have this twin focus, of building up God’s people in worship and drawing outsiders in.