Scripture reading – Psalm 52
The Context of Psalm 52
Psalm 52 recorded the prayer and meditations of David when he learned that Doeg, the Edomite, had betrayed him to King Saul (1 Samuel 21-22). The accusations of that evil man had deceived the king, who believed Ahimelech, the priest, had conspired to assist David, his enemy.
Doeg witnessed Ahimelech giving David five loaves of bread and the sword of Goliath as he requested (1 Samuel 21:3-4, 8-9); however, the priest had not done so as an act of ill will toward the king. Nevertheless, Doeg used the occasion and accused Ahimelech, who was enraged (1 Samuel 22:16). When Saul’s soldiers refused to slay the priests as the king commanded, Doeg did the king’s bidding and killed eighty-five priests and their families (1 Samuel 22:18-19). One man survived the slaughter, Abiathar, the son of Ahimelech (1 Samuel 22:20-23).
The Tragic Slaughter Recorded in 1 Samuel 22 inspired Psalm 52.
David Charged Doeg for His Wicked Deeds (Psalm 52:1-4)
Psalm 52:1-4 chronicled David’s assessment of the Edomite Doeg and revealed how the wicked take pleasure in injuring the righteous. David observed that the wicked employ their tongues to destroy believers (Psalm 52:1-2). They prefer lies over truth. They are liars and love to deceive (Psalm 52:3-4).
David Warned Doeg Concerning God’s Judgment (Psalm 52:5-7)
The righteous take no pleasure in the suffering and sorrows of the wicked. Yet, God’s judgment reminds them that the LORD is just (Psalm 52:5). When believers see the LORD’s judgment, they revere Him and are satisfied that His justice will be served (Psalm 52:6). Doeg committed a great evil, and God abandoned him to the consequences of his wicked ways (Psalm 52:7).
David Took Comfort in God’s Mercies (Psalm 52:8-9)
When news of Ahimelech and the priests’ deaths reached David, he was troubled. Nevertheless, he took solace in the LORD’s loving mercies (Psalm 52:8). He vowed, “I will praise thee for ever, because thou hast done it: And I will wait on thy name; for it is good before thy saints” (Psalm 52:9).
Closing thoughts:
Believer, God is ever good, and it pleases Him when His people make it a habit to praise Him before His saints (Psalm 52:9)! Remember, the wicked make light of their transgressions and take pleasure in lies and deceit. We are tempted to complain and assert that the ways of the wicked are unfair and that there is no justice. However, we can be comforted knowing that the LORD is just, and the wicked will not go unpunished.
Take a few minutes, and rehearse all the good the LORD has done in your life.
Copyright © 2023 – Travis D. Smith
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