Worship: A Study in PsalmsSample

What does it say?

David placed all of his hope in the name of the Lord, believing God would bring Doeg to ruin because he loved evil rather than good. God will put evildoers to shame.

What does it mean?

Doeg, an Edomite and Saul’s chief herdsman, told the king how Ahimelech the priest had given aid to David. At Saul’s command, Doeg killed 85 priests and their families in retribution (1 Sam. 21-22). Upon hearing this news, David wrote Psalm 52, calling on God to avenge the evil that had been done. It’s important to note that David’s request was not an act of retaliation but perfectly aligned with God’s just character. Chapter 53 reinforces the truth that God despises those who do evil and will judge their actions. One day, the rebellion against God by all who do evil will meet with His justice.

How should I respond?

Knowing how to pray is difficult when we observe the depths of evil in our world. As followers of Christ, we’re commanded to love our enemies, yet the Holy Spirit within us reveals God’s righteous anger against anything unholy. How should you pray for the enemies of God? You can be certain you’re praying within His will when you pray according to His character. God is just; therefore, we can pray for God’s justice to be carried out. God is also loving and merciful, so we can pray for those same people to come to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. Will you leave vengeance for the evil you’ve seen and experienced up to God? His justice will ultimately prevail.