This psalm is labeled a lament, but it also contains praise and prophecy. The passage is longer than most at 24 verses, but is worth the time and consideration.

Verses 1-5

David pleads with the Lord to protect and deliver him using language that has become quite familiar. He seeks refugee in the Lord, his Rock, Fortress, and Refuge.

But the most important part of David’s request is his concern for God’s glory. The world knows David trusts in God to deliver him, and while God can do as He pleases, David asks God to not allow him to be disgraced, but to be lead and guided by the name of the Lord.

God’s glory is not always our first concern when faced with difficult circumstances, but following David’s example in making it a part of our regular prayers can only make a positive difference in our outlooks.

Verses 6-8

God is a jealous God who despises idol worship. Such false religions have corrupted Israel in the past and will again after David’s reign. However, David trusts in the Lord and rejoices in God’s goodness to him. The road has not been easy, but David knows God was with him in the hard times. He is in a spacious place because God has worked in his life.

Verses 9-13

These words of David paint a vivid picture of his struggle and the future struggle of Jesus on the cross. He speaks of being exhausted from angry sorrow and grief. David’s strength has failed him because of his sinfulness—Jesus’ from carrying the sin of the world on the cross. Verse 5 is quoted by Jesus as His last words.

Father, into Your hands I entrust my spirit. – Luke 23:45

David made many mistakes, but there is no doubt the Holy Spirit was active in his life, often guiding his pen, and certainly using him for God’s glory.

Verses 14-18

David again asks the Lord to deliver him from his enemies. He asks that the wicked be disgraced and brought to the grave, but that he will be saved by the favor of the Lord.

Verses 19-22

There are times when we all feel cut off from the Lord. David was no exception. But he reminds us that God stores up goodness for His children. He is a generous father. Perhaps the most comforting thought David ever penned is verses 19-20.

How great is Your goodness that You have stored up for those who fear You and accomplished in the sight of everyone for those who take refuge in You. You hide them in the protection of Your presence; You conceal them in a shelter from the schemes of men, from quarrelsome tongues.

We may feel separated from God, but we are never alone. There is no safer place that the presence of the Lord.

Verses 23-24

It is a dangerous thing for a Christian to believe his own press. But shying away from success is an equally dangerous element of pride. David offers the right balance in his closing words. Love the Lord and be courageous in Him. God is to be our hope, our joy, and the source of our success. If we keep our eyes on Him, He is glorified by our success. Otherwise, we are in danger of a great fall.

This post is Day 31 of the 31 Days of Journaling through the Psalms series. If you would like to read the first post, Psalm 1: The Wise and the Wicked, click here. The introduction to the series can be found here.

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