A weary fugitive king prays beside a shield as enemies gather on distant ridges

Psalm 3

King James (Authorized) Version
Chapter overview
Surrounded during flight, the psalmist entrusts danger and reputation to God. Protection becomes a shield, prayer receives an answer, and secure sleep leads to renewed courage despite overwhelming opposition on every side.
RefugePrayerProtectionCourage

About Psalms: book summary and outline →

1LORD, how are they increased that trouble me! many are they that rise up against me.
2Many there be which say of my soul, There is no help for him in God. Selah.
3But thou, O LORD, art a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter up of mine head.
4I cried unto the LORD with my voice, and he heard me out of his holy hill. Selah.
5I laid me down and slept; I awaked; for the LORD sustained me.
6I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people, that have set themselves against me round about.
7Arise, 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.
8Salvation belongeth unto the LORD: thy blessing is upon thy people. Selah.
‹ Psalm 2Psalm 4 ›

Verses to memorize from Psalm 3

  • Psalm 3:3But thou, O LORD, art a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter up of…
  • Psalm 3:5I laid me down and slept; I awaked; for the LORD sustained me.

King James (Authorized) Version — Public Domain. Where these translations come from.