READ: Ps. 55:1-24: … But I trust in You …
This Psalm refers to moments of severe violence, deceit, and betrayal in David’s lifefrom the side of false fellow countrymen. Whom David has in mind is not clear. One may think of Ahithophel, whom David regarded as a very trustworthy counselor, but who betrayed him by choosing the side of Absalom (2 Sam. 15-17). But whether he was a good friend of David (vs.14,15) is the question.
The Psalm can be divided into three parts: (I) In vs.2-12 David complains about enemies in general; (II) In vs.13-16 David speaks about a good friend who deceives him; (III) In vs.17-26 David expects his deliverance from his opponents and their destruction.
The Psalm begins with David’s supplication to the LORD to look upon his terrible misery. This is caused by what wicked enemies do to him. David seems to collapse under it. With their hatred and wrath they drive such deadly fear into him that he expresses the wish to fly away like a dove in order to escape from them (vs.7).
David speaks in the plural about his assailants and asks the LORD to swallow them up because of their injustice and evil (vs.10ff). But the worst suffering is from the hatred and violence from a confidant, a good friend (vs.12-15).
David indicates how good they had it together as brothers of God’s people. That thought enlarges his suffering. We may extend the application of this Psalm to Jesus Christ who was betrayed by His own disciple, Judas.
After his expression of misery and his request for punishment, David calls upon God in the firm expectation that He will hear him and deliver him from all his opponents. In verses 21 and 22 David gives his judgment about the false friend: he is a deceiver, who breaks God’s covenant. That God shall avenge Himself on him is clear. But those who remain faithful to God’s covenant may cast their burdens upon the LORD. He shall strengthen and sustain them.
What is casting your burden on the LORD (vs.23)?
Singing: Ps. 55:1,3,5,9