Psalms – Chapter 3

Old Testament9 Verses

1The psalm of David when he fled from the face of his son Absalom.

2Why, O Lord, are they multiplied that afflict me? many are they who rise up against me.

3Many say to my soul: There is no salvation for him in his God.

4But thou, O Lord, art my protector, my glory, and the lifter up of my head.

5I have cried to the Lord with my voice: and he hath heard me from his holy hill.

6I have slept and have taken my rest: and I have risen up, because the Lord hath protected me.

7I will not fear thousands of the people surrounding me: arise, O Lord; save me, O my God.

8For thou hast struck all them who are my adversaries without cause: thou hast broken the teeth of sinners.

9Salvation is of the Lord: and thy blessing is upon thy people.

Reflection for Today

The message of Psalms Chapter 3 unfolds within the broader narrative of prayer, praise, and the full range of human emotion before God. Catholic theology, drawing on the Psalms are the prayer book of the Church, prayed daily in the Liturgy of the Hours (CIC 2585-2589), sees in this chapter a call to deeper faith. The principle that God invites us to bring all our emotions to Him guides our interpretation.

The Church Fathers, including St. Augustine, St. Jerome, and St. John Chrysostom, devoted themselves to explaining Scripture for the faithful. Their insights, preserved in the Church's Tradition, continue to illuminate our reading. The Catechism reminds us that "the Church has always venerated the divine Scriptures as she venerated the Body of the Lord" (CIC 103).

As you engage with this chapter, bring your questions, struggles, and hopes to the text. God's Word addresses the whole person—mind, heart, and will. Through the sacraments, especially the Eucharist, we receive the grace to live what we read. May this chapter strengthen your faith and deepen your love for Christ and His Church.

💡Catholic Reflection • Church Teachings

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