Let
those who seek after my soul be disappointed and brought to dishonor. Let those who plot my ruin be turned back and confounded.
Psalm 35:4
Psalm 35 [1.] Contend, Yahweh, with those who contend with me.
Fight against those who fight against me.
Take hold of shield and buckler,
and stand up for my help.
Brandish the spear and block those who pursue me.
Tell my soul, “I am your salvation.”
Let those who seek after my soul be disappointed and brought to dishonor.
Let those who plot my ruin be turned back and confounded.
Let them be as chaff before the wind,
Yahweh’s angel driving them on.
Let their way be dark and slippery,
Yahweh’s angel pursuing them.
For without cause they have hidden their net in a pit for me.
Without cause they have dug a pit for my soul.
Let destruction come on him unawares.
Let his net that he has hidden catch himself.
Let him fall into that destruction.
My soul shall be joyful in Yahweh.
It shall rejoice in his salvation.
Meaning:
In this verse, the psalmist calls upon God to frustrate and shame those who seek to harm him. The language used reflects the psalmist's deep distress and desire for deliverance from his enemies. He entrusts his situation into God's hands, expressing confidence that God will vindicate him and thwart the plans of his adversaries.
The significance of Psalm 35:4 lies in its portrayal of God as a defender of the oppressed and a protector of the righteous. The psalmist's prayer reflects his faith in God's justice and sovereignty, believing that God will ultimately bring about justice and vindication for His people. This verse resonates with those who have experienced injustice or persecution, offering assurance that God hears their cries for help and will act on their behalf.
Psalm 35:4 also serves as a reminder of the reality of spiritual warfare and the existence of enemies who seek to harm God's people. The psalmist's prayer for deliverance from those who seek his soul highlights the ongoing struggle between good and evil in the world. It prompts believers to remain vigilant and to rely on God's strength and protection in the face of adversity.
One cross-reference that sheds light on the significance of Psalm 35:4 is found in Psalm 40:14, where the psalmist similarly prays for deliverance from enemies: "Let them be disappointed and confounded together who seek after my soul to destroy it. Let them be turned backward and brought to dishonor who delight in my hurt." This passage echoes the sentiment of Psalm 35:4, underscoring the psalmist's trust in God's ability to thwart the plans of the wicked and bring about justice.
Another cross-reference that enhances our understanding of Psalm 35:4 is found in Romans 12:19, where Paul quotes from Deuteronomy 32:35 and writes, "Don’t seek revenge yourselves, beloved, but give place to God’s wrath. For it is written, 'Vengeance belongs to me; I will repay, says the Lord.'" This passage reinforces the idea that believers can entrust their grievances and injustices into God's hands, knowing that He will ultimately bring about justice in His perfect timing.
As we reflect on Psalm 35:4, we are reminded of the importance of turning to God in times of trouble and entrusting our concerns into His care. Like the psalmist, we can pour out our hearts before God, knowing that He hears our prayers and is actively working on our behalf. May we find comfort and strength in the assurance that God is our defender and protector, and may we continue to trust in His unfailing love and faithfulness.
In conclusion, Psalm 35:4 captures the psalmist's heartfelt plea for deliverance from his enemies and his trust in God's justice and protection. As we face opposition and adversity in our own lives, may we follow the psalmist's example of turning to God in prayer and entrusting our concerns into His care.
PIB Scriptures are derived from the World English Bible