Psalm 3--Lord, how are they increased that trouble me! many are they that rise up against me. Many there be which say of my soul, There is no help for him in God. Selah. But thou, O LORD, art a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter up of mine head. I cried unto the LORD with my voice, and he heard me out of his holy hill. Selah. I laid me down and slept; I awaked; for the LORD sustained me. I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people, that have set themselves against me round about. Arise, O LORD; save me, O my God: for thou hast smitten all mine enemies upon the cheek bone; thou hast broken the teeth of the ungodly. Salvation belongeth unto the LORD: thy blessing is upon thy people. Selah.

This psalm reflects the outpouring of the believer's heart. First of all, it is the cry of the one who is the object of slander, cruel mockings, and scourgings. He sees his enemies gather on every side, taunting them, telling them that God doesn't care. They would, if it were possible, deceive the very elect into thinking that their problem is trying to live a godly life. All he hears are the voices of his mockers saying, "If you join us, then you will know what true happiness is. Forget God. Surely, a God who loves you would send you earthly prosperity and success." These overwhelming circumstances can even cause the believer to lose sleep, and to make their couches or beds swim with their tears.

It is under these circumstances, the troubled heart of the believer cries out for God to arise. Through the comfort of the Holy Spirit, the smitten believer gains the strength to press on in the battle. The Lord opens his eyes to gently remind him that God is his Shield. God is the lifter up of his head. Through this work of the Spirit, the believer exclaims that he will not be afraid of ten thousands of people, knowing that the One in control is the same One who will turn even the evils in this life to work for his salvation. Recalling the judgments sent upon the wicked in the past, the child of God asks that others who are overwhelmed may experience this same comfort that he had experienced.