In a dark and dying world, Jesus’ followers must often travel a difficult, thorny, and challenging path. They must frequently face vehement opposition from a world that despises God’s truth. Misunderstanding, misinterpretation, and misrepresentation of their motives are common. Sometimes, they must place themselves directly in harm’s way to deliver the gospel to those who need to hear it.
Psalm 35 is a poignant reminder that hostility toward God’s servants is part of the broader Christian narrative. Written nearly 3,000 years ago by King David while he was chased by enemies, Psalm 35 resonates deeply with the experiences of today’s believers. It sheds light on the hatred and hostility Christians must encounter:
- In verse 1, the psalmist, who is being pursued and attacked, asks for God to “fight against those who fight against me.”
- In verse 4 he pleads: “May those who seek my life be disgraced and put to shame; may those who plot my ruin be turned back in dismay.”
- Verse 7 highlights the unfairness and malice God’s followers face from enemies who have “hid their net. . . and without cause dug a pit for me.”
- In verse 12, David laments that instead of receiving gratitude or kindness for his actions, his enemies “. . . repay me evil for good and leave me like one bereaved.”
- Verse 20 reveals the deceit of David’s enemies: “They do not speak peaceably, but devise false accusations.”
These ancient complaints resonate with today’s believers, who often encounter similar opposition, false accusations, and unfair treatment. But in the same Psalm, David also offers words of insight, encouragement, and hope:
- He finds solace and strength in the presence of God, exclaiming: “And my soul shall be joyful in the Lord; it shall rejoice in His salvation.” (35:9). When the weight of hostility threatens to overwhelm us, the source of our strength is the Almighty. In His embrace, we find the strength to persevere and the joy that comes from fulfilling our sacred purpose.
- He takes comfort and hope in the justice of God: “All my bones shall say, ‘O Lord, who is like you, delivering the poor from him who is too strong for him, the poor and needy from him who robs him?” (35:10). God is our ultimate source of deliverance. He will always act according to His character.
- He places unwavering faith and confidence in the righteousness of God: “Awake and rouse yourself for my vindication, for my cause, my God and my Lord! Vindicate me, O Lord, my God, according to your righteousness, and let them not rejoice over me!” (35:23-24) Christians can confidently affirm that God’s righteousness is their righteousness . . . because they are God’s obedient servants. This confidence empowers them to persevere, knowing that their ultimate vindication lies in God’s righteous hands.
These themes (strength, hope and confidence) find parallels in the New Testament. Paul highlights God’s love as a source of strength to overcome trials (Romans 8:31-39). Jesus promises blessings and hope to those persecuted for their faith (Matthew 5:10-12). And Peter encourages perseverance and conifidence in God’s faithful righteousness amidst persecution (1 Peter 4:12-19).
When we are under fire for our faith, Psalm 35 teaches us to cry out to God. He gives us His infinite strength for the battle. He gives us the hope of sure justice. And He gives us the confidence to travel His righteous path, even through the darkest of times.
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