I will keep watch for YouThis phrase reflects a posture of vigilance and expectation. In the biblical context, watchfulness is often associated with prayer and waiting on God (
Matthew 26:41). The psalmist expresses a deep reliance on God, similar to a watchman waiting for the morning (
Psalm 130:6). This vigilance is not passive but active, involving trust and anticipation of God's intervention. Historically, watchmen were crucial in ancient cities, tasked with alerting inhabitants of any approaching danger, symbolizing the psalmist's dependence on divine protection.
O my strength
The psalmist acknowledges God as the source of his strength, a recurring theme in the Psalms (Psalm 18:1). This recognition of God as strength implies a personal relationship and reliance on divine power rather than human ability. In the cultural context of ancient Israel, strength was often associated with military might and protection, underscoring the psalmist's trust in God's ability to deliver and protect. This phrase also typifies Christ, who is the ultimate source of strength for believers (Philippians 4:13).
because You, O God, are my fortress
The imagery of God as a fortress conveys a sense of security and refuge. In ancient times, fortresses were strongholds that provided safety from enemies, often situated on high ground for strategic advantage. This metaphor highlights God's role as a protector and defender against adversaries. The concept of God as a fortress is echoed throughout scripture (Psalm 18:2,Proverbs 18:10), emphasizing His unchanging nature and reliability. This assurance of protection is prophetic of the security found in Christ, who offers eternal refuge to those who trust in Him (Hebrews 6:18-19).
Persons / Places / Events
1.
DavidThe author of the psalm, who is seeking God's protection from his enemies. This psalm is traditionally attributed to David during a time when Saul sent men to watch his house in order to kill him.
2.
GodReferred to as "my strength" and "my fortress," highlighting His role as a protector and source of power for David.
3.
EnemiesThe adversaries of David, likely Saul's men, who are seeking to harm him. They represent the forces of evil and opposition in the life of a believer.
4.
FortressA metaphor for God's protection and refuge, emphasizing His ability to shield and defend His people.
5.
WatchThe act of vigilance and expectation, indicating David's trust and reliance on God for deliverance.
Teaching Points
God as Our StrengthRecognize that true strength comes from God, not from our own abilities or resources.
In times of trouble, rely on God's power to sustain and protect you.
Vigilance in FaithLike David, maintain a posture of watchfulness and expectation for God's intervention in your life.
Cultivate a prayerful attitude, staying alert to God's presence and guidance.
God as Our FortressTrust in God's protection and refuge, especially when facing adversities or spiritual battles.
Find peace and security in knowing that God is your stronghold against any threat.
Dependence on GodDevelop a habit of turning to God first in times of need, rather than relying on human solutions.
Strengthen your faith by remembering past instances of God's faithfulness and deliverance.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1.What is the meaning of Psalm 59:9?
2.How does Psalm 59:9 encourage reliance on God's strength in daily life?
3.What does "my strength, I will keep watch for You" signify in Psalm 59:9?
4.How can Psalm 59:9 deepen our understanding of God's role as a refuge?
5.Connect Psalm 59:9 with another scripture emphasizing God's protection and strength.
6.How can we practically "keep watch" for God's intervention in our struggles?
7.How does Psalm 59:9 reflect God's role as a protector in times of trouble?
8.What historical context influenced the writing of Psalm 59:9?
9.How does Psalm 59:9 challenge modern views on divine intervention?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Psalm 59?
11.Is engaging in cybersex considered sinful?
12.Why does Psalm 59 align with David’s perspective in 1 Samuel 19:11 but omit details that might resolve historical inconsistencies in the biblical account?
13.How can we verify historically (Psalm 59:1) that Saul actually sent men to watch David's house, given the lack of external archaeological evidence?
14.What does 'Be Still and Know I Am God' mean?What Does Psalm 59:9 Mean
I will keep watch for You• David models an active, expectant attitude toward the Lord. Instead of passively hoping for rescue, he “keeps watch,” much like the prophet on the wall inHabakkuk 2:1 who waits to hear God’s answer.
• This watchfulness is rooted in faith, echoingPsalm 130:5–6: “I wait for the LORD… more than watchmen wait for the morning.” The image is simple—just as dawn surely arrives, so God surely intervenes.
• In practical terms, keeping watch involves:
– Staying alert to God’s Word each day (Mark 13:37).
– Guarding the heart from fear and discouragement (1 Peter 5:8 reminds us to be sober-minded and watchful).
– Expecting God’s timing rather than forcing our own (Isaiah 40:31).
• Because Scripture is literal and trustworthy, this call to “watch” is not poetic fluff; it is a daily directive for believers who face real threats and real uncertainty, just as David did when Saul’s men surrounded his house (Psalm 59 superscription).
O my strength• David does not look inward for resolve; he addresses God Himself as “my strength.”Psalm 28:8 says, “The LORD is the strength of His people,” underscoring that power flows from the Lord, not from human grit.
• Calling God “my strength” is personal and possessive. The same intimacy appears inPsalm 18:1, “I love You, O LORD, my strength.” Believers can speak this way because God binds Himself to His people by covenant faithfulness.
• When our own resources fail,Exodus 15:2 assures us, “The LORD is my strength and my song,” and2 Corinthians 12:9 reveals that His power is perfected in our weakness. Thus, acknowledging “O my strength” is the doorway to experiencing supernatural endurance in trials.
because You, O God, are my fortress• The reason David can watch confidently is that God is a fortress—an unbreakable place of refuge.Psalm 18:2 expands the picture: “The LORD is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer.”
• “Fortress” conveys security against attacks that would overwhelm any ordinary shelter.Proverbs 18:10 affirms, “The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.”
• God is not merely a distant protector; He surrounds His people.Psalm 46:1 describes Him as “a very present help in trouble,” andNahum 1:7 calls Him “a stronghold in the day of distress.”
• Because Scripture is literally true, we may trust that whatever enemies, viruses, cultural storms, or spiritual battles press in, God’s defenses are impenetrable. Running to Him is not wishful thinking—it is the only safe course.
summaryPsalm 59:9 invites believers to an alert, trusting posture: keep watch expectantly, draw strength personally from the Lord, and rest in the impregnable security of His fortress. David’s words move us from anxiety to assurance, from self-reliance to God-reliance, and from fear to steady hope, because the God who spoke them is faithful and His Word is certain.
(9)
His strength.--This gives no intelligible meaning, and
Psalm 59:17 shows that the ancient versions (and some MSS.) are right in reading "my strength" (vocative). The first two words of the next verse must also be brought back to this: "My strength, on Thee let me wait. For God is my fortress, God of my grace (or mercy),"
i.e.,my gracious or merciful God.
Verse 9. - Because of
his strength. There is no "because of" in the original, and the reading, "
his strength" (
עזּו), is doubtful. Several manuscripts have "
my strength" (
עזּי), and this reading was followed in all the ancient versions. Most modern critics prefer it, and translate,
O my strength, as in ver. 17.
Will I wait upon thee; rather,
I will wait upon thee.For my God is
my Defence; or,
my High Tower (Revised Version).
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew
I will keep watchאֶשְׁמֹ֑רָה(’eš·mō·rāh)Verb - Qal - Imperfect Cohortative - first person common singular
Strong's 8104:To hedge about, guard, to protect, attend tofor You,אֵלֶ֣יךָ(’ê·le·ḵā)Preposition | second person masculine singular
Strong's 413:Near, with, among, toO my strength;עֻ֭זּוֹ(‘uz·zōw)Noun - masculine singular construct | third person masculine singular
Strong's 5797:Strength, mightfor You,כִּֽי־(kî-)Conjunction
Strong's 3588:A relative conjunctionO God,אֱ֝לֹהִ֗ים(’ĕ·lō·hîm)Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 430:gods -- the supreme God, magistrates, a superlativeare my fortress.מִשְׂגַּבִּֽי׃(miś·gab·bî)Noun - masculine singular construct | first person common singular
Strong's 4869:A secure height, retreat, stronghold
Links
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OT Poetry: Psalm 59:9 Oh my Strength I watch for you (Psalm Ps Psa.) 
