Selah

Welcome to the Days of Praise podcast, a daily devotional by the Institute for Creation Research. Cela. Many there be which say of my soul, There is no help for him in God. Cela. Psalm three two.

The word selah occurs 74 times in the Bible. Three of which are in the prophetic psalm of Habakkuk, with the other 71 in the Book of Psalms. The first of these occurrences is here in Psalm 3.2, and it also occurs at the end of verses 4 and 8. Thus, in effect, dividing Psalm 3 into three stanzas.

However, its exact meaning is uncertain. Most authorities think it is some kind of musical notation to be applied when the psalm was being sung with accompanying musical instrumentation. it suggests a pause of some kind, perhaps to allow the instruments to play a few notes while the singers were silent before proceeding with the next portion, possibly changing to a different key. When the psalm is merely being read, however, as must often be the case, this explanation would be pointless. Thus, some think it indicates a brief pause for reflection on the truth just revealed before proceeding to the next point.

Selah might therefore mean something like. Think of that. In Psalm 3. As the first instance, Verse 2 notes that many, perhaps originally those involved in Absalom's rebellion against King David, are saying, Not even God can help him now. But then the psalmist remembers God's promises.

He prays, and God answers, so now he can say, Well what do you think about that? Both exclamations seem implied by his cellat. Then in the third stanza he stresses his security in his Lord. He can sleep and not be afraid of ten thousands of people that have set themselves against me round about. Salvation belongeth unto the Lord.

Thy blessing is upon thy people.

So what can you say about that, you enemies of God and His Word? If you've enjoyed today's devotional, be sure to subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts. And please rate and review so more listeners can find us. To support ICR's ministry, visit icr.org/slash donate. Your gift of any amount helps us to reach others with biblical truth and encouragement.

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