David, the psalmist, pleads with God as he claims he was suffering for no apparent reason.

In verses 1-12, he pleaded with God to save him. He described what he was going through like drowning in the waters and being swamped by waves of the sea. In desperation, he cried loudly until his throat became sore, but God was not to be found. Those who hated him had no reason to harm him. They forced him to restore what he did not “steal.” God sees and knows whether he has stolen it or not. Nothing is hidden from Him.

David prayed he would not stumble or fall. Even his family is against him. People scorned him, and the elders mocked him. He says he is a laughingstock to the drunkards. He tried to find comfort in God, but God did not give him any. His enemies continue to accuse him. Like David, if we face such ordeals, we must not give up. But we should continue to seek God for deliverance and persevere in our trials.

In verses 13-28, David prays to God to show him favor and deliver him. He pleads with God to hear his prayer and rescue him. He believes God sees his enemies scorning him and wishes that God would show His great power to those who caused him pain. He asked God not to show mercy to his mockers because he trusts in the Lord. But to empty their houses when they flee. To judge them for their sins and blot their names from the Book of Life meant for the righteous. Is it wrong to pray like David against our enemies? Isn’t it true that God’s desire is for all men to be saved? I believe we can tell God our feelings, and not to show mercy to those who harm us. However, we cannot dictate what He should do or be mad when He does not do as we ask. God is sovereign. We must allow Him to be God and judge all men, including us.

We can be honest with Him about how we feel and what we wish for Him to do. We do not have to hide our feelings. He knows how we feel and what we think even before we pray. But we must let God be God.

In verses 29-36, David continues to ask God to save him from his affliction. He promises to make sacrifices to Him when He delivers him. He pleads with Him to let the poor see that those who trust in God can see His deliverance and be happy. He is confident that God hears the needy and does not look down on those who are held captive by their enemies. He calls all the living creatures on earth to praise God, as he believes that God will protect His holy place and the cities of Judah for His people to inherit and dwell in. God hates evil and desires to save His people from the injustices they face. When God saves us, we must not forget to thank Him and praise His name. Praise Him for delivering and providing for all that we need. Let us trust in Him just as the Israelites trusted Him. Let us give glory to His Holy Name, as the psalmist calls us to do so.

Prayer:

O Lord our God, deliver us from unjust suffering. Punish those who act wickedly and deliver your righteous one from the wicked. We believe that you will hear our cries and save us from our troubles.