Read Psalm 59

God Is My Defense

“What have I done to deserve such poor treatment?” Have you ever wondered this when someone takes advantage of you, talks behind your back, or threatens you? Perhaps it has gone even further and you have suffered some physical harm, but you cannot for the life of you figure out why.

David faced the same problem before he became the king of Israel. Saul became jealous, paranoid that David was trying to usurp the throne. In response to his delusions, Saul sent men to kill the young man who had defeated some of Israel’s most fearsome foes.

David wondered why Saul pursued him, and why others were taking Saul’s side. “For look, they lie in wait for my life; the mighty gather against me, not for my transgression nor for my sin, O Lord. They run and prepare themselves through no fault of mine” (Psalm 59:3-4). He recognized them for what they are: “enemies,” “those who rise up against me,” “the workers of iniquity,” and “bloodthirsty men” (Psalm 59:1-2), but that did not explain why he was the target of their savagery.

What was David’s solution? He turned to the Lord for help. He prayed for deliverance and sang the praise of God, knowing that God is faithful to His children. “But I will sing of Your power; yes, I will sing aloud of Your mercy in the morning; for You have been my defense and refuge in the day of my trouble. To You, O my Strength, I will sing praises; for God is my defense, my God of mercy” (Psalm 59:16-17).

Do we demonstrate the same resolve and assurance in God’s power? When all is said and done, the truth will come shine forth. If we are true to God, we have nothing to worry about. God’s enemies will be scattered and consumed, but His faithful followers will be exalted and satisfied.

“Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy” (1 Peter 4:12-13).