Psalm 34 is thought to have been written by David in remembrance of his escape from the courts of Achish, king of Gath, as recorded in 1 Samuel 21:10-15. For fear of his life, David fled from the pursuit of an angry king Saul. He made his way to Gath, evidently expecting to receive quarter from Achish. But, David was not met with the greeting he expected. Instead, the servants of Achish identified him as king and he quickly realized that he was not safe. David “changed his behavior” and led them to believe that he was crazy. Achish decided that he had no need for David, and allowed him to leave unscathed.
It is not very difficult to imagine what must have been going on in David’s mind throughout this ordeal. David had recently said goodbye to his closest friend and confidant, Jonathan. He was being pursued throughout the land by an angry and vengeful king Saul; lack of necessary supplies like food and water had caused he and his men to eat the showbread they received from Ahimelech the priest; and now, just when he thought that he had found some protection, he discovers that his life is in just as much danger in the hands of Achish as it is with Saul. Feelings of fear, frustration, discouragement, and heartbreak must have overwhelmed David. Surely there were moments where he felt helpless and wondered what he would have to do to stay alive. Yet, how wonderful the feeling of blessing and assurance must have been when he successfully escaped from the custody of Achish.
I know that many of us can relate to David and the great struggles he endured during this time in his life. We know what it is to be afraid; we know what it is to say goodbye to a friend or loved one; and we know what it is to be heartbroken, frustrated, and discouraged. But we must remember that when trouble comes, the righteous will rise to the occasion. Scripture promises us that God is with the righteous, and He helps us through our affliction. Listen to what David said:
The righteous cry and the Lord heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles. The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit. Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the Lord delivereth him out of them all (Ps 34:17-19).