Charles Spurgeon in his classic work The Treasury of David, calls this psalm "The cry of a hunted soul." It was written by David who had many strong and clever enemies including King Saul himself. Indeed in his own strength he was helpless against the king and his armies (among other enemies). As we look at this psalm, let's focus on exactly what David asked of God.
- Rescue from evil people v. 1
- Protection from violent people v. 1, 4, 8
- Relief from wicked tongues. v. 3 This is interesting. Sometimes words can hurt us as much as lethal weapons. "Their tongues sting like a snake; the venom of a viper drips from their lips." We've all been hurt by cruel words. Ugly gossip destroys lives. This is something that is impossible to stop with our human efforts. Only God can deal with people's tongues. When we are victims of venomous talk, we must take it to God and let Him take care of it. And while we're on this subject, we must each make sure that we are not the ones who use our tongues to hurt others! Nor should we listen to gossip.
- May the enemies be destroyed by their own evil plans. vv. 9-11 Again we see David's very human desire for the destruction of his enemies. If we're honest, we've all wished ill of those who wish us harm. It's certainly OK to place this responsibility on God rather than trying to take care of it with our own hands.
- David expressed his total confidence in God. vv. 6, 7, 12, 13 "I said to the Lord, "You are my God!"...O Sovereign Lord, the strong one who rescued me, you protected me on the day of battle...Surely righteous people are praising your name; the godly will live in your presence."
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