January 15th
THE PSALMS
Psalm 69-71
Psalm 69
Psalm 69
I looked in vain for one friendly face. Not one. I couldn’t find one shoulder to cry on.
Psalm 69:20, The Message
Theme: Messianic Mistreatment.
Background: Psalm 22 describes Jesus’ physical sufferings too.
69:4 “They hate me without cause … What I did not steal must I now restore?”
Jesus Christ did not “rob” God in that he did not rob God of glory by sinning, but the sinless lamb of God was willing to pay for sin of others by laying down the value of his perfect life! (John 15:25) Am I willing to apologize - take the rap - even when innocent? Am I a peacemaker by self-sacrifice?69:13 “But as for me, my prayer is to you, O LORD. At an acceptable time, O God, in the abundance of your steadfast love answer me in your saving faithfulness.”
David was insulted, shunned, and made the object of citywide gossip. “Even my own brothers, those of my family act as though they don’t want anything to do with me.” (69:8, Passion) But still he prayed. Likewise, the greater David prayed in Gethsemane and on the cross – even for his enemies. If at any time we are called on to suffer reproach and shame for Christ's sake, our comfort is that he, the One who experienced the pit, is now our Priest participating in our feelings (Heb 4:14-16). Let us determine that no matter how bad things become we will continue to pray. When others reject us, we need God most. Do not turn from your most faithful friend who will come to the rescue at the “acceptable time”. Final judgment on persecutors is left in God’s hands.______________________________
Christ’s followers cannot expect better treatment than their Master had.
Christ’s followers cannot expect better treatment than their Master had.
