Psalm 109
-Theme: Righteous
indignation for those who accuse the righteous and oppression him. Liars and
slanderers will be judged strictly by the LORD if they do not turn from their
wicked ways. We can be honest and open with the LORD concerning our wounds and
troubles when they come from evil people.
-Historical Insight: This is a Psalm for the choir director
in the Temple from David. He experienced a relentless amount of persecution and
trouble from wicked accusers before and after he became king. His plea is for a
just God to recompense the evil he has had to endure.
-*Application* Wounds from people are some of the most
hurtful and painful experiences in life. Imprecatory prayers are okay as we see
here in this Psalm, but be very careful. Have you become totally clean with God
in your own repentance and supplication? Have you extended grace as far as it
can be stretched? Is love and the glory of God your motivating factors? There
is no doubt that God is just and will repay the wicked for all of their
misdeeds of forgery, lies, deception, slander, and violence. The question for
us is this: Are we the righteous or the wicked? Examine yourself before you
pray against your foes. More times than not, you will see that some adjustments
need to be made in your own life before you go ACCUSING others of their conduct
detrimental to you. Often times we simply get what we deserve and imprecatory
prayers have no authority or value if this is the case. Take Jesus’ advice
first, get the log out of your own eye, and then you will be able to pray with
true righteous indignation (Matthew 7:1-5). But, if you have evaluated the
situation as a person of God, you are completely justified to lift up your
concerns honestly before the LORD and expect to see Him vindicate your righteous
position. Remember this however: 1. God is the One who fights our battles
(Deuteronomy 20:4, Romans 12:19), 2. Love covers a multitude of sins and
transgressions (Proverbs 10:12, 1 Peter 4:8), and 3. We are commanded to overcome
evil with good (Romans 12:21). Finally, there is a Christological aspect to this
Psalm, which we need to consider. God, through Jesus Christ’s work on the cross
to redeem us, “stands at the right hand of the needy to save him from those
(Satan or wicked people) who judge his soul (Psalm 109:31).” Thank God for His
mercy and power to deliver!
Verse to Memorize:
Psalm 109:31
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