Psalm 35 Continued…
In verses 11-16 David switches topic without warning. This section describes both the acts of the enemies and the one praying, without any of the trust described in verses 9-10. Such contrast! The enemies acts are described in verses 11-12 and 15-16, with David’s actions as the contrast in verses 13-14.
What we see here is that this is not an actual war, but the enemies do, however, gather together to threaten and do harm (15-16). They laugh and mock and repay good with bad. The contrast is that David prays for them, offering prayers and adopting a stance of mourning on their behalf.
In verses 17-18 we see another plea for God to act. God seems to be looking on, and David needs action. It is as if his very life is at stake. Verse 18 notes that if God acts then David will offer thanksgiving and praise among the people.
In verses 19-21 David is wishing for his enemies to shut up. That’s because they use words like weapons. David points out that they do not merely stand opposed to him but also to the quietness of the land. In other words, it would seen that they have contempt for the very things that God values.
In verses 22-26 David again is asking God to act, but not necessarily against the enemies. You can see David’s frustration at God’s silence in verses 22-23. God is being called upon here by David to judge. David wishes for these enemies to know shame and disgrace for their gloating.
Finally, in verse 27-28, David again switches tones. We don’t know if that is because time has passed and the issue is resolved or if David is displaying the kind of faith that trusts in God answering his prayers throughout this Psalm. David praises God because life has returned to a better place.
PRAY
Father, help me to have unwavering trust that you will answer my prayer and be with me in my time of trouble and defend my cause when I am not guilty.