Our daily reflections follow the M'Cheyne Bible reading plan, designed for those who want to read the whole Bible in one year. Each reflection focuses on one of the chapters from that day's readings. Darllenwch rhain yn Gymraeg.
Lord, prepare me to receive your word. Clear my mind and warm my heart. Assure me of your loving purposes for me, and speak into my life today.
The performance directions introduce the setting for this psalm as, 'When Doeg the Edomite had gone to Saul and told him, "David has gone to the house of Ahimelech"'. You can read the story for yourself in 1 Samuel 21–22, but Doeg is essentially responsible for telling King Saul that David, a most loyal soldier, and Ahimelech, a priest, are against him. The episode results not only in the endangering of David's life, but the murder of hundreds of priests at Doeg's hands. Understanding the setting for this psalm helps us understand the vengeful tones of verses 5–7, which come after David challenging Doeg's pride at his actions.
In this moment of deep despair, betrayal and misunderstanding, he directs his pain in the way he knows best: with a lament. Following the typical format of a lament means the song ends with a declaration of God's goodness.
David has the least reason to be hopeful in this situation: betrayed to the king, and blaming himself for a bad situation. But this psalm is ultimately a declaration of trust that good will win out over bad in the end.
Even in the midst of grief, betrayal and anger, the psalmist realises his experiences and emotions don't change the character of God. Whatever we experience, God remains worthy of our praise.
Lord, thank you that your character remains good, even when I feel hurt or betrayed by others. Help me in my most bitter times to bring my pain to you and to always trust your goodness.
This reflection was written by Helen Crawford, Bible Society's Digital Bible Experience Manager
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