Psalm 35
King David, the author, has been maliciously attacked from every corner of the ring so he cries out to the Lord for protection. In fact, he not only cries out of defensive protection, but offensive protection. David begs the Lord to use mighty weapons against those who are chasing his soul to the ends of the earth. David, the notorious warrior, has multiple suggestions for God, who is omniscient, to thwart the enemy.
- First use your buckler and shield
- Second utilize your spear and battle-axe
- Third ensure that they slow down on the dark and slippery path
- Fourth let their traps, nets and pits, catch them
Just in case God did not know what to do, David makes his ideal suggestions for God to overcome the enemy. God’s protection will provoke questions among the enemies for the odds were against David, yet through the power of God he swallowed up and defeated enemies regularly.
Later in the Psalm, David inwardly struggles with the enemies resentment toward him. It seemed strange to David and us that when you offer clothes, prayer, and fasting to someone who is sick that they would retaliate by slugging you with their best punch. What is their best punch? When you are sick and trodden down in the mud they smoothly apply their boot to your back and shove you face first into the mud. These enemies were numb to the physical and psychological battle waged against David. Most of us know the feeling of washing the mud off our face; unable to figure out why those you cared for so much in their despair offer jesting and laughter in your turmoil.
David has blatantly exposed one of the most gruesome attacks of people against people. That is, a people group that you extended your arm to in need and yet in your needs no assistance is offered. The sharp painful jabs, verbal attacks, plunge into your side and the solid left blow,mocking laughter, has you stumbling around the ring. Oh how difficult to understand how people can treat each other with such disdain and causeless hatred. David explores the depths of depravity and the scene is disgusting.
David’s only response for the malicious attacks is prayer to the Sovereign God of the universe. Arise and protect me! “My tongue shall declare Your righteousness and Your praise all day long.” No matter how devastating the situation David discovers a way to praise the Lord.
