Psalm 54

Read Psalm 54 ESV

Who - David talking to God, with his prayer made into a song for public worship.  

What and Why - David is writing a plea to the LORD.  Saul has pursued him into the wilderness after the Ziphites ratted him out for the second time (I believe this is in I Samuel 26:1-25, though it could be I Samuel 23:15-29.)  He is in great danger and no match for the army Saul has brought with him.  Without the LORD’S divine intervention David will be killed by Saul.  David's desperation leads to his pleading with God for help.  David's faith in the LORD leads to his praise and worship for what God did.  

When - Saul has pursued David in I Samuel 23:15 or 26:1.

Where - While in the wilderness near Ziph about 15 miles from David’s hideout in Engedi.  

How - David begins with his pleas for God to save him.  Then in the next stanza David gives the reason God should save him, godless men seek his life.  David expresses his hope and faith in God to save him.  David ends with a declaration of praise because God deserves it and God did deliver him from his enemies.  

So What 

1. When we are in trouble cry out to the LORD.  As believers in the work of Christ on the cross we should cry out, “LORD save me!”  
2. While David was opposed by an earthly enemy, we can still use this psalm for help when our enemy is spiritual or our own sinful flesh.  
3. When God saves, we have an obligation to give Him praise and give public testimony to what He has done.