“Blessed are those who have regard for the weak; the Lord delivers them in times of trouble. The Lord protects and preserves them – they are counted among the blessed in the land – he does not give them over to the desire of their foes. My enemies say of me in malice, ‘When will he die and his name perish?’ When one of them comes to see me, he speaks falsely, while his heart gathers slander; then he goes out and spreads it around. Even my close friend, someone I trusted, one who shared my bread, has turned against me. But may you have mercy on me, Lord; raise me up, that I may repay them. I know that you are pleased with me, for my enemy does not triumph over me. Because of my integrity you uphold me and set me in your presence forever. Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel, from everlasting to everlasting. Amen and Amen.” (v1-2,5-6,9-13)
This Psalm has a few sections with slightly different themes.
v1-3: A blessing for those who care for the poor, weak, the downcast.
v4-6: A plea to God for healing of afflictions
v7-9: A recognition of betrayal by those who oppose (even best friends)
v10-12: A plea to God for mercy, and thankfulness for protection and provision
v13: A praise to God for who He is
One of the things that strikes me about this Psalm, is David really highlights the three major aspects of what makes us human – our mind, body and spirit.
– In our mind/thoughts we can feel compassion for the weak and oppressed, as well as feel the betrayal of those around us.
– In our body we can have pain and affliction from sickness and disease
– In our spirit we are preserved and lifted up by God when we remain upright and faithful, it is here that we receive the primary benefit of God’s grace and mercy (though of course grace and mercy can also come in the form of physical/emotional healing, the salvation of our eternal spirit is more critical)
What also strikes me is the two types of suffering David highlights: both physical (disease, sickness, affliction, weakness) and emotional (betrayal, oppression, weakness). Though it’s not quite as clear in this Psalm, many of David’s Psalms request deliverance from his enemies, but only a few ask for physical healing. This leads me to believe one of two things – either David had few physical problems (which is possible), or the emotional struggles from the people around him weighed more heavily on his heart (which is most likely).
I too can attest that when I have relationships in my life that are not in alignment, it weighs more heavily on me than any physical infirmity does. We know that physical infirmities are “temporary” (only in this life), yet relational issues have eternal consequences. David knew all too well that “For the Lord loves the just and will not forsake his faithful ones. Wrongdoers will be completely destroyed; the offspring of the wicked will perish.” (Psa 37:28) This is why David also pleaded with those who did not yet know God to “Turn from evil and do good; then you will dwell in the land forever.” (Psa 37:27) Not because he didn’t want to be opposed or betrayed, but because he recognized we all have an eternal destiny, and just like God we want as many to be saved as possible.
I think both David and God are incredibly patient with their “enemies”, because “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” (2 Pet 3:9) Both God (Jesus) and David choose to endure the slander, mocking, foolishness, betrayal, treachery, etc in the hopes that one day these enemies would become brothers/sisters/sons/daughters.
Lord Jesus, following Your example and command, we pray for our enemies today. Send Your love flowing through us, and forgive us for holding on to anything that could hinder our prayers. We release any unforgiveness, thoughts of revenge, or hateful emotions that can quench Your Spirit in our hearts. Then give us wisdom as we seek how to bless, to love, and to pray for our enemies. Knowing how you sometimes use pain and difficulty to bring blessing to our lives, we pray the same for our enemies. Use whatever means You need to soften stony hearts, open blind eyes, and to help them realize their ultimate neediness for You. And give us patience and a deep trust in You, Lord, even when we can’t see any change in our enemies. When we waver, not wanting to pray for our enemies, help us to remember Your grace in our own lives, and what we would be without You.
(an abr. prayer from https://www.crosswalk.com/faith/prayer/a-powerful-prayer-for-your-enemies.html)
~ Conqueror in Training