David Unjustly Accused.

Psalms 7:1–8
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David wrote this psalm in response to the slanderous accusations of those who claimed he was trying to kill Saul and seize the throne (I Sam. 24:9-11). Instead of taking matters into his own hands and striking back, David cried out to God for justice (vv. 1-2). Much of David’s prayer in this Psalm is concerned with the mistreatment of a man referred to as Cush. We do not know for sure who Cush was. Some think he was a member of Saul’s Court and that he had been slandering David to the king. Cush had accused David of “iniquity” (v.3) or that he was unfair, deceitful, and dishonest in his dealings with other people. He also accused David of rendering evil to a man who was at peace with him (v.4). David denies this charge brought against him and says to God, “I am innocent of these charges, Lord. You know it. If I have ever done these things, then hand me over to my enemies. I rest my case (v. 5).”

David did not say that the enemy was telling the truth, but he was willing for God to examine him and punish him. He had nothing to hide. He simply cried out for justice. The proper response to slander is prayer, not revenge. Instead of striking back, we need to ask God to take charge of our case, bring justice and restore our reputation. David prayed for God to manifest his wrath against his enemies (v. 6). He felt that great injustices had been done against him and he was asking the Lord to come into court with anger to judge his enemies. This is not the kind of language we use in prayer meetings today, but it is language quite consistent with David’s day and circum­stances. He prays that God would plead his cause (v. 7). David was careful to maintain his integrity (v. 8).

Application

How should I respond to those who slander me and cause me to suffer for doing good? “Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you” (Matt. 5:10-12). According to the world situation as this time it appears that my children and grandchildren may have to suffer much more persecution for their faith than I have had to face.