O Lord, I have come to you for protection; don’t let me be disgraced. Save me, for you do what is right (v. 1, NLT).
Psalm 31 should be read when we are having great difficulty. Not just a bad day or problematic week.
When our world has been shaken, it’s time to read Psalm 31. Now, let’s read our real Bible or place a note on our e-Bible, and mark Psalm 31 with this statement: Open this Psalm when it’s the worst moment of my life!
In Psalm 31, David deals with three areas of difficulty: First, when we are attacked and begin to doubt God’s goodness and protection; second, when both our friends and enemies want us ruined; and third, when we are in emotional turmoil.
First: Our world is turned upside down. Think wars and rumors of wars and China against America. Think plagues, pestilence, and Coronavirus. Think bankruptcy, job loss, or illness. Psalm 31 describes our solution in these words . . .
You are my rock and my fortress. For the honor of your name, lead me out of this danger (v. 3).
Second: When everyone has turned against us, what do we do? King David’s solution was asking God to . . .
Pull me from the trap my enemies set for me, for I find protection in you alone (v. 4).
I find traps are allowed by God for two reasons. To reveal weaknesses giving the evil one a foothold with us, or obstacles to strengthen our faith before a significant breakthrough. When enemies attack, let’s ask for discernment, acknowledging any truth in their insinuations while standing against their malevolent and defeating intentions.
I appreciate Psalm 31’s description of a godly response when enemies approach. We don’t need to defend ourselves . . .
I entrust my spirit into your hand. Rescue me, Lord, for you are a faithful God. (v. 5).
Third: When we are depressed or discouraged. The Psalms are honest. Listen to the words of the greatest king of Israel and one of the heroes of the Bible . . .
I will be glad and rejoice in your unfailing love, for you have seen my troubles, and you care about the anguish of my soul (v. 7).
If King David can be honest about his emotions, I believe it is okay for us to admit frustration as well.
David didn’t wallow. His honesty was a confession meant to open the floodgates of God’s grace. We should not get stuck in our depression but use it to propel our prayers for mercy.
Have mercy on me, Lord, for I am in distress. Tears blur my eyes. My body and soul are withering away (v. 9).
I love the Psalms because they describe real life.
King David didn’t sit down in a palace one day, surrounded by luxury, and think, “HHHHMMMHHM, I’m going to write a psalm about despair today. I hope it will top the charts in a Bethel song in 2023.”
He wrote what he was living.
And in the moment of Psalm 31, his life was in danger, his friends had turned against him, and he was in deep emotional turmoil. What did he find by honestly seeking God?
It’s a message for all of us right now.
Love the Lord, all you godly ones! For the Lord protects those who are loyal to him, but he harshly punishes the arrogant. So be strong and courageous, all you who put your hope in the Lord! (vv. 23-24)
Wow.