


Psalms 59:9
Bible Versions
[Because of] his strength will I wait upon thee: for God [is] my defence.
My Strength, I will watch for you, for God is my fortress.
I will keep watch for You, O my strength, because You, O God, are my fortress.
Because ofhis strength I will give heed unto thee; For God is my high tower.
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Psalms 9:9
The LORD also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble. -
Psalms 62:2
He only [is] my rock and my salvation; [he is] my defence; I shall not be greatly moved. -
Psalms 59:17
Unto thee, O my strength, will I sing: for God [is] my defence, [and] the God of my mercy. -
Psalms 27:14
Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD. -
Isaiah 26:3
Thou wilt keep [him] in perfect peace, [whose] mind [is] stayed [on thee]: because he trusteth in thee. -
Isaiah 26:4
Trust ye in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH [is] everlasting strength: -
Isaiah 40:31
But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew [their] strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; [and] they shall walk, and not faint.
Context
Psalm 59 is a powerful lament and prayer of King David, written during a time of intense danger and persecution. The psalm's superscription indicates it was composed "When Saul sent, and they watched the house to kill him" (1 Samuel 19:11). Surrounded by enemies who sought his life, David expresses his distress and appeals to God for deliverance. Verse 9, therefore, is a pivotal declaration of faith amidst severe adversity, highlighting David's unwavering trust in God as his ultimate protector.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The Hebrew word for "strength" in this verse is 'oz (עֹז), which conveys not just physical power but also a sense of security, might, and a fortified place. The phrase "wait upon thee" comes from the Hebrew root yachal (יָחַל), meaning to hope, to expect, to tarry with anticipation. It denotes an active, expectant waiting rather than mere idleness.
Most significantly, "my defence" is translated from the Hebrew word misgav (מִשְׂגָּב). This term literally means a "high tower" or "lofty place," signifying a secure, inaccessible refuge. It paints a vivid picture of God as an elevated, unassailable stronghold where David is safe from his enemies' reach. This imagery powerfully conveys God's role as an ultimate protector.
Practical Application
Psalm 59:9 offers profound encouragement for believers facing their own trials and challenges today. When life's circumstances seem overwhelming, and we feel surrounded by difficulties, this verse calls us to:
This verse reminds us that true security is found not in avoiding conflict, but in standing firm in the knowledge that God Himself is our impregnable defense.