Read Psalms 52
Highlights:
David contemplates some discouraging times in his life. The end of the wicked is contrasted with the peace of the godly. Folly of the godless and longing for Israel to be restored. Prayers for deliverance from adversaries, the treachery of "friends," and relief from tormentors. Plea for judgment of the wicked; praise to the Lord for His protection.
King David was heartbroken over the revolt that was led by his rebellious son and ended with the death of Absalom. Since his own son had turned the people's hearts against David and declared himself king, David probably was surprised and heartbroken to discover that Ahithophel also had deceived him: For it was not an enemy that reproached me; then I could have borne it: neither was it he that hated me that did magnify himself against me . . . But it was thou, a man mine equal, my guide, and mine acquaintance. We took sweet counsel together, and walked unto the House of God in company (Ps. 55:12-14).
When David learned that Ahithophel, his friend and most trusted adviser, not only had joined Absalom but also had asked to personally execute him, he was shaken with grief. David's first reaction was a cry seeking escape from the wicked: Oh that I had wings like a dove! for then would I fly away, and be at rest (55:6). He expressed his deep disappointment in the hypocrisy and treachery of this one whom he called mine equal, my guide (55:13).
But David did not have wings like a dove, and he could not fly away. Instead, he committed his sorrows to the Lord and trusted solely in Him as he had done from his youth. He had assurance that God was able to sustain him in every trial and would accomplish the Lord's purpose for his life. Therefore, he concluded that Psalm by saying: Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and He shall sustain thee: He shall never suffer (cause) the righteous to be moved (made to fall) (55:22).
David spoke out of the realization that those who were seeking his downfall were, in reality, opposing God. Every servant of God probably has been betrayed by trusted "friends" just as David was by Ahithophel. Since we are the Lord's servants, we should not be greatly surprised when we are disappointed, deceived, or even betrayed.
Jesus warned His followers: If the world hate you, ye know that it hated Me before it hated you. . . . but because ye are not of the world . . . therefore the world hateth you. . . . If they have persecuted Me, they will also persecute you (John 15:18-20).
Thought for Today:
Jesus said: In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world (John 16:33).
Christ Revealed:
As the One who saves those who will call on Him (Ps. 55:16-17). And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the Name of the Lord shall be saved (Acts 2:21; also Rom. 10:13).
Word Studies:
53:3 filthy, corrupt; 55:4 sore, grievously; 55:9 divide their tongues, bring confusion to their counsel; 59:10 prevent, go before.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for Government Officials: Rep. Sam Farr (CA) • Country: Jamaica (3 million) in the West Indies • Major languages: English and Creole • Religious freedom • 78% Protestant; 10% Roman Catholic; 7% Afro-American spiritist • Prayer Suggestion: Pray for national leaders and their families (Ezra 6:10).
Optional Reading:
Memory Verse for the Week:
Psalms 34:1