From Slander to Safe in God
February 10, 2021
Commentary
Some Bible students see Psalm 4 continuing Psalm 3. However, in Psalm 3, David was targeted, much like in a war, with thousands of troops lined up against him. In Psalm 4, it’s like David is in court, being falsely accused of slander and lies. He asks, ‘How long will my honor be turned to shame?’ (4:2). David faced open hostility and hidden schemes. But he moves from anxiety to quiet trust in God’s care.
David asks God not only to graciously hear (4:3), but to answer, to respond, which He does, ‘You gave me relief before when I was in distress (4:1). He begins by saying, God is the One Who makes me righteous. Now, in verse 3, he says, ‘the Lord has set apart the godly for Himself.’
So, verse 4 tells us to ‘Be angry and do not sin.’ Paul quotes this and adds, ‘Don’t let the sun go down on your wrath.’ In Hebrew, the word for ‘anger’ can also be translated as ‘tremble.’ In other words, ‘Stand in awe of God and do not sin.’ Then he says, ‘Ponder in your own hearts on your beds and be silent.’ This is not like Eastern meditation, where you empty your mind. In Biblical meditation, you think deeply on God’s word (JOS 1:8; COL 3:16). Then you will apply it to your life. How? ‘Offer right sacrifices for your sin and put your trust in the LORD’ (4:5).
Many hopelessly say, ‘Who will show us anything good?’ (4:6). David confidently says, “No, God will look on us with favor (NUM 6:24-26). He will give me ‘peace’ to relax and sleep, and put ‘joy in my heart,’ more joy than successful, godless people have when they are celebrating their harvest (4:7). Verse 8 says, this is because, ‘You alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety. Only You, and only when I am alone with You in quietness, am I safe and secure in Your hands.’
Application
When falsely accused or treated as unimportant, how do I respond? Do I go to friends and complain, looking for sympathy? How can I quiet my heart, think deeply on His Word, and put my trust in the LORD to defend me? What would it look like today to rest in His peace and let Him protect my name, my joy, and my heart? SMN
Psalms 4:1–8 (NET)
1 When I call out, answer me, O God who vindicates me. Though I am hemmed in, you will lead me into a wide, open place. Have mercy on me and respond to my prayer.
2 You men, how long will you try to turn my honor into shame? How long will you love what is worthless and search for what is deceptive? (Selah)
3 Realize that the Lord shows the godly special favor; the Lord responds when I cry out to him.
4 Tremble with fear and do not sin. Meditate as you lie in bed, and repent of your ways. (Selah)
5 Offer the prescribed sacrifices and trust in the Lord.
6 Many say, “Who can show us anything good?” Smile upon us, Lord!
7 You make me happier than those who have abundant grain and wine.
8 I will lie down and sleep peacefully, for you, Lord, make me safe and secure.
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