David Describes Those Who Falsely Accuse Him
June 30, 2019
Commentary
It is not easy to live righteously, even when things are going well (vv. 8-9). It is especially hard when we are being persecuted and being falsely accused. Only the Lord, as He directs us through His Word, can keep us having right thoughts and right action. The same loving-kindness that led the Israelites across the Red Sea, as well as God’s love that sent His Son Jesus Christ to the cross, is sought by the psalmist to deliver him from his oppressors.
David describes three wicked foes as being (v. 10):
1. Prosperous – “enclosed in their own fat.”
2. Proud – “they speak proudly.”
3. Persistent – “as it were a young lion lurking in secret places.”
He says that his enemies have caught up with him. They are everywhere and looking for an opportunity to smear him into the dirt (v. 11). David describes them as a lion hiding in a secret place ready to jump out and devour them (v. 12). We deceive ourselves when we measure our happiness or contentment in life by the amount of wealth we possess (vv. 13-15). When we put riches at the top of our value system we let power, pleasure, and financial security overshadow the eternal value of our relationship with God. David knows he has lived righteously before the Lord God and his enemy has not. He confidently cries out for deliverance from those who have lived solely for the things of this life and ignored God (v. 14).
Application
When we are falsely accused of something it is easy to want to fight back. I’m aware that the world is trying to press me into its mold. Its goals are prosperity and pride, and it will be persistent to this end. Do I find these things creeping into my life? Like David, the only thing that will keep me on the right track is a close relationship with the Lord and His Word.
Psalms 17:8– 15 (NET)
8 Protect me as you would protect the pupil of your eye. Hide me in the shadow of your wings.
9 Protect me from the wicked men who attack me, my enemies who crowd around me for the kill.
10 They are calloused; they speak arrogantly.
11 They attack me, now they surround me; they intend to throw me to the ground.
12 He is like a lion that wants to tear its prey to bits, like a young lion crouching in hidden places.
13 Rise up, Lord! Confront him. Knock him down. Use your sword to rescue me from the wicked man.
14 Lord, use your power to deliver me from these murderers, from the murderers of this world. They enjoy prosperity; you overwhelm them with the riches they desire. They have many children, and leave their wealth to their offspring.
15 As for me, because I am innocent I will see your face; when I awake you will reveal yourself to me.