6 This poor man cried, and the LORD heard him, and saved him out of all his troubles.

7 The angel of the LORD encampeth round about them that fear him, and delivereth them.

Psalms 34:6-7

Explanation

In verses 6 and 7, we see testimony of God’s deliverance in two kinds of situations.  

In verse 6 we see the deliverance that is needed is deliverance from poverty.  The word for poverty in the Hebrew is a word that is also translated as afflicted, humble, lowly, and needy. By saying the word “this” the psalmist includes himself as the person giving the testimony.  He is saying, I was needy and poor, and I cried out to God.  He heard me!  By implication he is saying, He’ll hear you, too.  

In verse 7 we see the deliverance that is needed is deliverance from potential harm. The word “encampeth” describes a people who were susceptible to human enemies, predators, and thieves.  Walled cities, fires, swords, spears and arrows were things that people could trust in, but these things didn’t always work.  The psalmist declares that God is the ultimate protection.  God sends His angels to protect those that fear Him.  God relievers us and protects through both natural and supernatural means.

Application

Do you see the pattern in these two verses?

Trouble.  Looking to God.  Deliverance. 

What an incredible instruction for us.  God wants us to look to Him.  He wants us to trust Him.  He wants us to cry out for deliverance with a proper fear of Him and view of ourselves.

He has already delivered us from the ultimate evil in giving us His Son.  If you have not placed your faith and trust in Him, He is offering salvation to you through Jesus.

Response

Heavenly Father, thank you for delivering us through your provision and through your protection.  I’m so thankful to You, and I know that ultimately You are the One who gives every good gift.  Help me to declare your deliverance to those who need You, today.  Amen.