DrIBEX Ideas

When he served in King Saul’s court, David was often attacked by some of Saul’s officers who flattered the king and lied about David (vv. 4–6, 9). King Saul wrongly believed that David was trying to steal his throne. Because of this he acted out his sad paranoia and eventually destroyed himself, not David!

Psalm 5:1-12

When people slander you, follow David’s example and pray about the matter, rather than stew–or sue! Note his four specific prayer requests:

Listen to me (vv. 1–6). David began the day with his heart lifted up to God. Psalm 5:3 is included in all prayer books as part of the morning prayers as well as Isa. 26:9: “My soul yearns for you in the night; in the morning my spirit longs for you.” He then shifts from his believing praise to his recognition of the slander against him (vv. 4–6). God knew about the sinful words of the liars, but He also heard the believing prayers of His servant.

Lead me (vv. 7–8). The Lord’s hesed (v. 7 “steadfast love” or “lovingkindness”) overcomes the schemes of the liars. David had to be very careful because Saul and his “posse” were watching him and his life was always in danger. He both worshiped God and asked for His daily direction. Verse 8b sounds like the familiar promise of Pr. 3:6 (“make my paths straight”).

Protect me (vv. 9–10). David did not take up arms against Saul or Saul’s men. He left those battles to the Lord (see 1 Sam. 24:2–7, 26:6–12). He trusted God to care for him, and God did not fail. It is important in reading these “imprecatory” psalms to recognize that David always left the judgment of his slanderers to God He did not take personal vengeance on them.

Provide for me (vv. 11–12). “Taking refuge” recalls Psalm 2:12. The blessing for the righteous person recalls Ps. 1:1–3. Protection is described by the metaphor of a shield (v. 12). Isn’t that what God told Abram that He was (Gen. 15:1)? Because he had God as King and Shield, David was blessed with joy, confidence, and an even deeper love for the Lord.

I heard a theologian comment that in this psalm David has reached a balance between absolute transcendence and elitist immanence. To us mortals that means that he knows the One who is lofty and high and who also dwells with the lowly (Isa. 57:15). Times of suffering can be times of growing if we just allow the Lord to finish what He has started.

O Lord, help me to believe that You who began a good work in me WILL complete it in the day of Jesus Christ (Phil. 1:6). AMEN.

*From Awake O Harp, to be published in February.*