David Calls on Angels to Gorify The Lord

Topic: Trust
Passage: Psalms 28:1–9

March 17, 2020

Commentary

Enemies were pressing upon David. His world had fallen apart. His own son Absalom had stolen the hearts of the men of Israel.  His throne that had seemed so secure had been snatched from him. The nation had turned against him. David prays that God will speak directly to him. He addresses God as “my Rock,” the changeless one  (v. 1). When surrounded by trouble or wickedness prayer is our only source of safety. Prayer is our best help when trials come our way because it keeps us in communion with God (vv. 2-3). David expresses complete trust that the Lord will answer his prayer and eventually overthrow the wicked. His complete assurance is in the power and loving-kindness of a God that fails not.

David cries out for the Lord to destroy his enemies (vv. 4-5). Hostile to the things of God, he says they deserved nothing but destruction. “Give them according to their deeds, and according to the wickedness of their endeavors: give them after the work of their hands; render to them their desert.” The problem with many of us is that we try to take care of our enemies with our own hands rather than leaving it in the Lord’s hands like David did. David lifted up his heart in gratitude to the Lord (vv. 6-9). He praised the Lord for three things:

  1. For hearing his prayer (v. 6).
  2. For being his strength and shield (v. 7).
  3. For being the salvation of Israel (vv. 8-9).

Even though we may not feel that we have been heard we still know that God has pledged Himself in hundreds of verses throughout the Word of God that He hears our prayers. He hears, He says so, and that should be good enough.

Application

What have I prayed trusting God for recently? Have I left it in God’s  hands or am I still trying to solve it by myself?

Psalms 28:1– 9 (NET)

1 To you, O Lord, I cry out! My Protector, do not ignore me. If you do not respond to me, I will join those who are descending into the grave.

2 Hear my plea for mercy when I cry out to you for help, when I lift my hands toward your holy temple.

3 Do not drag me away with evil men, with those who behave wickedly, who talk so friendly to their neighbors, while they plan to harm them.

4 Pay them back for their evil deeds. Pay them back for what they do. Punish them.

5 For they do not understand the Lord’s actions, or the way he carries out justice. The Lord will permanently demolish them.

6 The Lord deserves praise, for he has heard my plea for mercy.

7 The Lord strengthens and protects me; I trust in him with all my heart. I am rescued and my heart is full of joy; I will sing to him in gratitude.

8 The Lord strengthens his people; he protects and delivers his chosen king.

9 Deliver your people. Empower the nation that belongs to you. Care for them like a shepherd and carry them in your arms at all times!