David requested that his psalm be sung to the tune “Death of the Son”. This psalm is a somber reflection of war between nations. In verses 1 and 2, David praised God for his recent victory. He promised to tell others, probably his children are on his mind, and he will be filled with joy.
In verses 3 to 10, David acknowledged that his victories over other nations was because God was protecting Israel. All of the other nations had gods of their own making. In David’s day, it was not unusual for neighboring nations to send out raiding parties that would kill people, burn villages, and steal livestock and whatever else they could find including children to enslave.
In verses 11-20, David praised God encouraging others to do the same and to “tell the world about His unforgettable deeds”. He said God “cares for the helpless. . .He does not ignore the cries of those who suffer”.
It does not appear that David enjoyed war. He said that his enemies tormented him (verse 13). He knew that his life and the lives of his men could be taken in any battle, but it was his duty as king to protect his people and, if he had to do it, he would trust the Lord to protect him.