There is almost nothing worse than being falsely accused of a crime or indiscretion. Not only is it difficult to prove your innocence, but your name is tarnished. For many people in this position, their reputation is permanently damaged.
This is the kind of situation David faced. He was confronted by people who used their cunning, intelligence, and social connections to try to bring him down (vv. 1–2). Their attacks against him came in the form of lies, “the poison of vipers is on their lips” (v. 3). Like skillful hunters, they laid traps and snares to catch him (v. 5).
People have not changed much since David’s day. They still attack one another with malicious words. In this age of social media, verbal attacks have become common and damaging. What does faithfulness to God look like when we are attacked?
David turned to God in prayer. He vividly described his situation to God knowing that God cared about him and about the truth. He confessed that God was his most secure refuge, “you shield my head in the day of battle” (v. 7). He prayed that his enemies’ plans would fail (v. 8). More than that, he prayed that their evil actions would rebound upon them (v. 9).
It is important to note that David is expressing his anger to God, but leaves the results in God’s hands. His ultimate desire was not for wanton cruelty toward his enemies, but that justice would be done (v. 12).
We can be confident today that every evil ever committed will either be justly forgiven because of Christ’s sacrifice, if the perpetrator turns to God in repentance and faith, or will be justly punished. Nothing escapes God’s notice.
>> The psalms help us express our emotions to God, feelings of joy, sorrow, and even anger. Even after this study is complete, try reading one psalm every day. Use the Psalms during your prayer time, to help you turn to God in every situation.
Pray with Us
When You created humanity, You said it was very good. Our emotions are part of that good design. May we learn neither to exalt nor deny them, but to accept them as they are, knowing that You remain God in our joy and in our sorrow.
BY Ryan Cook
Dr. Ryan Cook has taught at Moody Bible Institute since 2012. He earned his bachelor of arts in Bible and Theology from Moody and his master of arts in Old Testament from Grand Rapids Theological Seminary. He has worked in Christian education and served as a pastor in Michigan for seven years. During his time as a professor at Moody, he earned his doctorate from Asbury Theological Seminary. He now lives with his wife, Ashley, and their three children in the Chicagoland area.