I. The problem—vv. ,

A. People—v. . The people who opposed the Psalmist. Many were against him. Note Jesus’ words in , . You will always face opposition when you serve God.

B. Plight—v. . These people discourage the Psalmist, saying God isn’t concerned about his problems. However, God is; He asks us to cast our care upon Him—.

II. The protection—vv. ,

A. The Lord—v. . Notice how God is our shield. He protects man. Only God could lift up the head of the Psalmist; that is, encourage him. God encourages us in many ways.

B. The listening—v. . The Psalmist calls upon the Lord, and the Lord hears him. The Bible has much to say about how God answers our prayers—; .

III. The peace—vv. ,

A. Faithful—v. . The Psalmist lay down and went to sleep. He had faith God would take care of him. God has promised never to leave us—.

B. Fearless—v. . Though ten thousand people are against me, I will not be afraid. If God is for me, it doesn’t matter who is against me—. “The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me”—.

IV. The power—v.

A. Plea—“Arise, O Lord; save me.” If we pray according to God’s will, he will hear us—, .

B. Personal—“Oh, my God.” David knew the Lord personally. He said, “The Lord is my shepherd”—. Paul desired to know God personally—.

C. Protection—“For thou hast smitten all mine enemies, upon the cheek bone; thou hast broken the teeth of the ungodly.” Even the strongest animal drops his prey and flees when struck upon the cheek bone.

V. The pardon—v.

A. Hope. Man’s only hope of salvation is God. Outside of God there is no salvation—; . We are saved not by what we do, but by what God had done for us—, .

B. Happiness. Salvation always produces joy—. See also .