Psalms from David’s Life

Of the more than 70 psalms attributed to David, at least 14 of them are connected with specific events in his life. From them we see an outline of a growing relationship with God. they are listed here, roughly in chronological order.

Event in David's Life

Reference

Psalm

What David Learned about God

When Saul sent men to David's home to kill him

1 Samuel 19

59

God is my refuge.

While running from Saul

1 Samuel 21

34

I will praise the Lord at all times.

While running from Saul

1 Samuel 21

56

When I am afraid, I put my trust in God.

While hiding in the cave of Adullam

1 Samuel 22

142

God is my refuge.

After learning that Doeg had murdered 85 priests and their families

1 Samuel 22

52

God will bring evil people down to everlasting ruin.

When the Ziphites tried to betray him

1 Samuel 23

54

God is my helper.

While hiding in a cave

1 Samuel 24

57

I will take refuge in the shadow of God's wings until the violent storm has passed.

While hiding in the wilderness of En-gedi

1 Samuel 24

63

My soul thirsts for God; his right hand holds me securely.

When Saul's pursuit was over

2 Samuel 22

18

To the faithful, God shows himself faithful.

After being confronted about his adultery with Bathsheba

2 Samuel 12

51

The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and repentant heart he will not despise.

During Absalom's rebellion

2 Samuel 15

3

From the Lord comes deliverance.

During Absalom's rebellion

2 Samuel 15

7

He is a righteous God who searches minds and hearts and can bring to an end the violence of the wicked and make the righteous secure.