Wednesday, July 31 – Psalms 69, 70

1. What is David asking God for in his distress? (Psalm 69:1)

2. How does David describe his situation and feeling of abandonment? (Psalm 69:8)

3. How does David wish his enemies to be shamed? (Psalm 70:2)

4. What does David express about those who seek God? (Psalm 70:4)

Commentary and Reflection:

Psalm 69 is a fervent cry from David to God amidst great distress. This psalm reveals the broken heart of someone experiencing deep despair and persecution, seeking God’s intervention and comfort. At first glance, this psalm might seem like a list of complaints and pleas. However, a deeper analysis reveals crucial aspects about God and His relationship with us.

Verse 21 might be hard to understand: “They also gave me gall for my food, and for my thirst, they gave me vinegar to drink.” This passage has a dual application: in David’s context, it expresses the cruelty and scorn he faces from his enemies. Prophetically, it refers to the crucifixion of Jesus, where He was given vinegar to drink when He was thirsty (Matthew 27:34, John 19:29). Therefore, amid your afflictions, remember that Jesus sympathizes with our pain. “For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin.” (Hebrews 4:15)

Psalm 70 teaches us about the blessing of seeking God. David asks that those who seek God rejoice and be glad: “Let all those who seek You rejoice and be glad in You; and let those who love Your salvation say continually, ‘Let God be magnified'” (Psalm 70:4). This reminds us of the joy and peace that come from seeking and loving the Lord. Our relationship with God brings blessing and joy, even amid adversity (Romans 8:28).

Psalm 70 is also a brief but intense cry for help. It reflects David’s trust in God as his only refuge and help in times of danger. This theme is repeated throughout the Psalms and the Bible, reminding us that God is our protector and ever-present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1).

Verse 2 might seem harsh: “Let them be ashamed and confounded who seek my life; let them be turned back and confused who desire my hurt.” Here, David is asking for divine justice against his enemies. In his context, he is surrounded by adversaries who seek to harm him. This cry is not for personal vengeance but God’s just intervention to defend the innocent and establish justice. This verse shows that God is just and will act against those who wish us harm (Romans 12:19). We can trust that He sees our struggles and will defend His people.

The overarching lesson here is the urgency of always turning to God, especially in distress. Daily life consists of challenges; sometimes, we are constantly in danger or facing adversities. Like David, we can cry out to God quickly and with the assurance that He hears and acts. Additionally, we should rejoice and be glad in the Lord, recognizing and proclaiming His greatness and salvation in our lives.

May the Lord strengthen and help you in every moment of need. May you feel His close presence and protective love in every challenge. May your heart be filled with joy and gratitude, always proclaiming, “Let God be magnified.” May the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, guard your heart and mind in Christ Jesus. Amen.