Psalm_35
Scripture
Psalm 35:3
Draw also the spear and the battle-axe to meet those who pursue me; Say to my soul, “I am your salvation.”
Observation - What does it say?
David is writing in concern of his enemies. It is quite possible that his enemies are people in whom he had once been very close, like King Saul or Absalom (see 1 Samuel 24 or 2 Samuel 15). There were several instances in his life where David was hiding in caves from these people. David proceeds to meet the situation with prayer. At the end of this Psalm, David cries out to the Lord, with praise. In verse 28 David says to God, “And my tongue shall declare Your righteousness And Your praise all day long.”
Understanding - What does it mean?
We have all seen some people do some crazy things. I remember watching a video of a police officer conducting a traffic stop. During his contact with the driver, he is called just about every name in the book and treated with total disrespect by the driver. But he responds with a calm voice and continues on with an even temperament. He was still upholding the law, but he did so with love.
As I was reading this song of David, I was reminded of when Jesus was speaking with his disciples in reference to how we aught to treat others. In Matthew 5:40 he states, “And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well.” In stark contrast to the way we want to respond to people who have done us wrong, Jesus asks us to give people grace and humility.
This is probably one of the best ways that we can act as God’s loving hands. When people take advantage of us, we have the opportunity to seek justice or to seek ways that we can bless others. Paul challenges us to fulfill the needs of our enemies (Romans 12:20) In seeking revenge for a wrong we cut short the love that God wants us to show others. But an act of kindness can often say so much more than a well formulated sermon.
It was once said, “Preach the gospel at all times. When necessary use words.” And we are also taught in the book of James that our actions speak louder than our words (James 2:18-19). And so, I will let God fight my battles while I seek to serve those who He is fighting with.
Life Application
Jesus give me the gift of patience when I come across those who oppose me. Help me to look through your lens of timing. I know that your timing in everyones life is different. But may my actions not hinder the love that you are giving to those around me. Help me to show my faith in you through my actions.
- Tyler Galloway