1 Contend, O Lord, with those who contend with me;
fight against those who fight against me!
2 Take hold of shield and buckler
and rise for my help!
3 Draw the spear and javelin against my pursuers! Say to my soul, “I am your salvation!”
4 Let them be put to shame and dishonor who seek after my life!
Let them be turned back and disappointed who devise evil against me!
5 Let them be like chaff before the wind,
with the angel of the Lord driving them away!
6 Let their way be dark and slippery,
with the angel of the Lord pursuing them!
7 For without cause they hid their net for me; without cause they dug a pit for my life.
8 Let destruction come upon him when he does not know it!
And let the net that he hid ensnare him;
let him fall into it—to his destruction!
9 Then my soul will rejoice in the Lord,
exulting in his salvation.
10 All my bones shall say, “O Lord, who is like you, delivering the poor from him who is too strong for him, the poor and needy from him who robs him?”
11 Malicious witnesses rise up;
they ask me of things that I do not know.
12 They repay me evil for good;
my soul is bereft.
13 But I, when they were sick—
I wore sackcloth;
I afflicted myself with fasting;
I prayed with head bowed on my chest.
14 I went about as though I grieved for my friend or my brother; as one who laments his mother, I bowed down in mourning.
15 But at my stumbling they rejoiced and gathered; they gathered together against me; wretches whom I did not know tore at me without ceasing;
16 Like profane mockers at a feast, they gnash at me with their teeth.
17 How long, O Lord, will you look on?
Rescue me from their destruction,
my precious life from the lions!
18 I will thank you in the great congregation;
in the mighty throng I will praise you.
19 Let not those rejoice over me
who are wrongfully my foes,
and let not those wink the eye
who hate me without cause.
20 For they do not speak peace,
but against those who are quiet in the land
they devise words of deceit.
21 They open wide their mouths against me; they say, “Aha, Aha! Our eyes have seen it!”
22 You have seen, O Lord; be not silent! O Lord, be not far from me!
23 Awake and rouse yourself for my vindication,
for my cause, my God and my Lord!
24 Vindicate me, O Lord, my God,
according to your righteousness,
and let them not rejoice over me!
25 Let them not say in their hearts, “Aha, our heart’s desire!” Let them not say, “We have swallowed him up.”
26 Let them be put to shame and disappointed altogether
who rejoice at my calamity!
Let them be clothed with shame and dishonor
who magnify themselves against me!
27 Let those who delight in my righteousness shout for joy and be glad, and say evermore, “Great is the Lord, who delights in the welfare of his servant!”
28 Then my tongue shall tell of your righteousness
and of your praise all the day long.
The True Meaning of Psalms 35
The Book of Psalms is a collection of sacred songs and prayers attributed to King David, the second king of ancient Israel. David cries out to God for help against his enemies who are unjustly persecuting him in this particular psalm. We witness David’s fervent pleas for divine intervention, unwavering trust in God’s justice, and ultimate confidence in the Lord’s deliverance as we delve into Psalm 35. This passage echoes the sentiments expressed in other Davidic psalms, where the king turns to the Almighty for protection and vindication against those who seek to harm him.
Throughout this chapter, we will see David’s unwavering faith in God’s ability to defend the righteous and bring down the wicked. His words resonate with the timeless struggle between good and evil, and serve as a testament to the power of prayer and the steadfast love of the Almighty.
Psalms 35:1-3
The psalmist in Psalms 35:1-3 begins by crying out to the Lord for help, saying, “Contend, Lord, with those who contend with me; fight against those who fight against me.” Take up shield and armor; arise and come to my aid. Brandish spear and javelin against those who pursue me. Say to me, ‘I am your salvation.’” These verses depict a desperate plea to God for protection and deliverance from enemies who are actively seeking to harm the psalmist. The imagery of battle and warfare is used to convey the seriousness of the situation and the need for divine intervention.
The psalmist is asking God to take an active role in defending him against his adversaries. This request for divine intervention reflects a deep trust in God’s power and willingness to come to the aid of His faithful servants. It also highlights the psalmist’s recognition of his own inability to overcome his enemies on his own, emphasizing the importance of relying on God for strength and protection.
Throughout the Bible, we see numerous instances of God fighting on behalf of His people against their enemies. God fought for the Israelites against the Egyptians, the Amalekites, and many other nations in the Old Testament. God’s ultimate victory over sin and death through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ is seen in the New Testament. These stories serve as reminders of God’s power to deliver His people from their enemies and the importance of entrusting our battles to Him.
This passage from Psalms also serves as a reminder of the spiritual warfare that believers face on a daily basis. While our enemies may not always be physical adversaries, we are constantly engaged in a spiritual battle against the forces of darkness (Ephesians 6:12). Just as the psalmist called on God to contend with his enemies, we too can call on God to fight on our behalf against the spiritual forces that seek to harm us. Psalms 35:1-3 is a powerful prayer for divine protection and deliverance from enemies. It reminds us of the importance of trusting in God’s strength and seeking His intervention in times of trouble. May we take comfort in knowing that God is our ultimate defender and salvation as we face our own battles and struggles.
Psalms 35:4-8
Several key sections in Psalms 35:4-8 offer insights into the psalmist’s plea for divine intervention and justice. Let’s break it down step by step.
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“May those who seek my life be disgraced and put to shame; may those who plot my ruin be turned back in dismay. The psalmist in this opening verse calls upon God to bring shame and defeat upon those who are seeking to harm him. This portrays the psalmist’s deep distress and desire for vindication from his enemies. Throughout the psalms, we see a recurring theme of God’s protection over His faithful servants and His judgment upon the wicked. This verse reflects the righteous desire for God to intervene on behalf of those who are being unjustly persecuted.
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“May they be like chaff before the wind, with the angel of the Lord driving them away; may their path be dark and slippery, with the angel of the Lord pursuing them.”
The psalmist vividly describes the fate he wishes upon his enemies – to be scattered like useless chaff before the wind, and to be pursued by the angel of the Lord. This imagery conveys the idea of God’s swift and decisive judgment upon the wicked. The mention of the angel of the Lord highlights the divine supernatural intervention that the psalmist is calling upon. Angels in the Bible often portray messengers of God’s justice and protection. This verse serves as a reminder that God is not indifferent to the suffering of His people and will ultimately bring justice to those who are oppressed.
- “May the net they hid entangle them, may they fall into the pit, to their ruin.”
Here, the psalmist invokes the concept of poetic justice, asking for his enemies to be caught in the very traps they set for him. This plea reflects the biblical principle of reaping what one sows (Galatians 6:7). Throughout the Bible, we see examples of God turning the plans of the wicked against them, such as in the story of Haman in the book of Esther. This verse underscores the psalmist’s trust in God’s righteousness and his belief that God will ultimately bring about justice and vindication for His people. Psalms 35:4-8 captures the psalmist’s fervent plea for divine intervention and justice in the face of persecution. It conveys a timeless message of trust in God’s protection, confidence in His judgment upon the wicked, and the assurance that God will ultimately deliver His faithful followers from their adversaries. This passage serves as a powerful reminder of God’s sovereignty and His commitment to defending the righteous.
Psalms 35:9-10
The verse in Psalms 35:9-10 reads, “Then I will rejoice in the Lord.” I will be glad because he rescues me. With every bone in my body I will praise him: ‘Lord, who can compare with you? Who else rescues the helpless from the strong? Who else protects the helpless and poor from those who rob them?’”
The first section of these verses speaks about rejoicing in the Lord and being glad because of His deliverance. This is an expression of gratitude and joy towards God for His saving power and faithfulness in rescuing the psalmist from his enemies. It reflects a deep sense of trust in God’s ability to protect and deliver His people in times of trouble.
The psalmist’s declaration to praise God with every bone in his body signifies a wholehearted and sincere worship. It shows the psalmist’s intention to worship God with his entire being, acknowledging God’s sovereignty and unmatched power. This level of devotion and reverence highlights the psalmist’s unwavering faith in God’s ability to provide refuge and protection to the vulnerable and oppressed.
The reference to God as the one who rescues the helpless from the strong and protects the poor from those who seek to harm them reinforces the theme of God’s justice and compassion for the downtrodden throughout the Bible. This idea is consistent with numerous other verses and stories in the Bible where God is portrayed as the defender of the weak and the champion of the oppressed.
For example, in Exodus 22:22-24, God commands His people to show compassion to the vulnerable members of society: “Do not take advantage of the widow or the fatherless. If you do and they cry out to me, I will certainly hear their cry. My anger will be aroused, and I will kill you with the sword; your wives will become widows and your children fatherless.” This demonstrates God’s concern for the marginalized and His expectation for His people to act justly and protect those in need. Psalms 35:9-10 serves as a powerful reminder of God’s faithfulness, protection, and justice, encouraging believers to place their trust in Him and to praise Him wholeheartedly for His deliverance and mercy. It also underscores the importance of standing up for the oppressed and marginalized, reflecting God’s heart for justice and compassion in the world.
Psalms 35:11-16
Several important sections in Psalms 35:11-16 provide deep insight into the emotional and spiritual journey of the psalmist. The first section, “False witnesses did rise up; they laid to my charge things that I knew not,” speaks to the betrayal and false accusations that the psalmist is facing. This resonates with many individuals throughout history who have been unjustly accused, such as Joseph in the book of Genesis. Joseph was falsely accused of trying to seduce Potiphar’s wife and was thrown into prison as a result. Despite this hardship, Joseph remained faithful to God, eventually rising to a position of power in Egypt, just as the psalmist in Psalms 35 looks to God for deliverance and justice in the face of false accusations.
The next section, “They rewarded me evil for good to the spoiling of my soul,” highlights the psalmist’s distress over being repaid with evil despite having done good. This sentiment is relatable to the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament, where he instructs his followers to love their enemies and pray for those who persecute them (Matthew 5:44). The psalmist’s lament serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity and ingratitude, it is essential to maintain a spirit of kindness and forgiveness, trusting in God’s ultimate justice and mercy.
The psalmist continues, “But as for me, when they were sick, my clothing was sackcloth: I humbled my soul with fasting, and my prayer returned into mine own bosom.” Here, the psalmist reflects on their response to the suffering of their enemies. Despite being wronged, the psalmist chose to extend compassion and empathy, demonstrating humility through fasting and prayer. This act mirrors the teachings of Jesus, who emphasized the importance of loving one’s enemies and praying for those who mistreat you (Luke 6:27-28). It underscores the transformative power of forgiveness and the ability to break the cycle of vengeance through acts of kindness and prayer. The psalmist pleads to God for intervention in the final section, saying, “I behaved myself as though he had been my friend or brother: I bowed down heavily, as one that mourneth for his mother.”” The psalmist’s deep sense of betrayal is palpable as they describe how they had treated their enemies with kindness and loyalty, only to be met with hostility and betrayal in return. This cry for divine justice and deliverance reflects the longing for God’s righteous judgment and protection in the face of adversity. It serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of placing one’s trust in God, even in the midst of profound suffering and betrayal, knowing that God is a refuge and a defender of the oppressed (Psalm 9:9). Psalms 35:11-16 captures the complex emotions of the psalmist as they navigate the challenges of betrayal, false accusations, and undeserved suffering. Through their lament and plea for divine intervention, the psalmist demonstrates unwavering faith in God’s justice and mercy, even in the face of profound injustice and persecution. This passage serves as a timeless reminder of the transformative power of forgiveness, compassion, and trust in God’s sovereignty, offering solace and guidance to all who seek refuge in the shadow of the Almighty (Psalm 91:1).
Psalms 35:17-18
The verses in Psalms 35, 17-18 read: “How long, Lord, will you look on? Rescue me from their ravages, my precious life from these lions. I will give you thanks in the great assembly; among the throngs I will praise you. The psalmist in the first part of this section is expressing their distress and desperation to God, questioning how long He will stand by and witness their suffering at the hands of their enemies. The imagery of being rescued from the “lions” is a powerful metaphor for the intensity and danger of the situation the psalmist finds themselves in. Lions, throughout the Bible, symbolize power, strength, and destructive forces. The psalmist in this context is calling out to God to save them from the formidable threats they are facing, akin to being saved from the jaws of fierce lions.
This cry for deliverance resonates throughout the Bible, as many individuals and groups face trials and tribulations that seem insurmountable without divine intervention. One of the most famous stories involving lions in the Bible is the account of Daniel in the lions’ den. Daniel’s faithfulness to God led him to be thrown into a den of lions as punishment in Daniel 6. However, God protected Daniel, closing the mouths of the lions, and he emerged unharmed. This story serves as a powerful reminder that God has the power to rescue His faithful followers from any danger, even when facing threats as fierce as lions.
The psalmist then shifts their focus from the plea for deliverance to a vow of praise and thanksgiving to God in the great assembly. Despite the current turmoil and distress, the psalmist expresses confidence and faith that God will rescue them. This resolve to offer thanks and praise in the midst of adversity is a powerful testament to the psalmist’s faith and trust in God’s ultimate deliverance. This also underscores the importance of gratitude and worship as a response to God’s faithfulness and intervention in times of trouble. This theme of calling on God for deliverance and praising Him in thanksgiving runs deep in the broader context of the Psalms. Many psalms express the rollercoaster of human emotions, from desperation and fear to gratitude and praise, reflecting the highs and lows of the human experience. It serves as a reminder that God is present in every season of our lives, ready to rescue us from the metaphorical “lions” that threaten to devour us and deserving of our gratitude and praise in all circumstances.
Psalms 35:19-21
The psalmist in Psalms 35:19-21 cries out to God, saying, “Let not those rejoice over me who are wrongfully my foes, and let not those wink the eye who hate me without cause.” For they do not speak peace, but against those who are quiet in the land they devise words of deceit. They open wide their mouths against me; they say, ‘Aha, Aha! Our eyes have seen it!’”
This section of the psalm depicts a moment of intense distress and persecution for the psalmist. The psalmist is faced with enemies who are not only against him but are also spreading lies and deceitful words about him. The psalmist appeals to God to intervene and not allow these enemies to gloat over his downfall or take pleasure in his suffering. This plea for divine justice against wrongful foes reflects a common theme throughout the Psalms – the trust in God’s righteousness and ultimate vindication of the righteous.
The psalmist’s experience mirrors the struggles of many individuals in the Bible who faced unjust persecution and betrayal. One prominent example is Joseph in the book of Genesis. Joseph’s own brothers plotted against him out of jealousy and sold him into slavery, leading to a series of unjust events in his life. However, through it all, Joseph remained faithful to God, and in the end, he was elevated to a position of great power and authority, illustrating God’s faithfulness in the face of adversity. The psalmist’s cry in Psalms 35 for deliverance from false accusers and deceitful enemies reminds us of the importance of seeking God’s justice and protection in times of trouble. It also serves as a call to trust in God’s sovereignty and power to overcome the schemes of the wicked. This theme is echoed in other parts of the Bible, such as in Proverbs 3:5-6, which encourages believers to trust in the Lord with all their hearts and lean not on their understanding, acknowledging God in all their ways so that He can make their paths straight. Believers are called to turn to God in times of trouble, trusting that He will defend the righteous and bring justice to the unjust in this section of Psalms 35. It serves as a powerful reminder that even in the midst of persecution and falsehood, God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in times of trouble (Psalm 46:1).
Psalms 35:22-26
The psalmist in Psalm 35:22-26 humbly calls upon God to come to their aid in their time of distress and persecution. The psalmist starts by pleading for God to not remain silent while their enemies unjustly accuse them. This section reflects the psalmist’s trust in God’s justice and faithfulness to defend the innocent against the schemes of the wicked. This cry for God’s intervention in the face of adversity is a recurring theme throughout the Psalms, highlighting the relational aspect of seeking God’s help in times of trouble.
The psalmist then affirms their commitment to praise God and magnify His name once deliverance comes. This declaration showcases the psalmist’s unwavering faith in God’s power to rescue them from their adversaries and highlights the importance of offering thanksgiving and praise to God for His faithfulness and deliverance. This act of praising God in advance of the actual deliverance demonstrates a powerful display of faith, showing that the psalmist’s trust in God is not contingent upon the outcome of their circumstances but rather on God’s character and promises.
Furthermore, the psalmist asks for God to be a witness to the injustices they are facing, emphasizing the need for divine intervention and vindication. This request for God to act as a witness to their suffering and persecution reflects the psalmist’s desire for God to bring about justice and righteousness in the midst of a situation where they are being wronged. The psalmist’s plea for God to not be far off underscores the intimate relationship between the psalmist and God, with the psalmist seeking comfort and reassurance in God’s presence during their time of distress. The psalmist expresses their confidence in God’s ultimate victory over their enemies as they continue to lament their affliction and persecution. This declaration of faith in God’s triumph serves as a reminder that, though the psalmist may be facing adversity and opposition, the ultimate victory belongs to God. This theme of God’s sovereignty and victory over evil resonates throughout the Bible, culminating in the ultimate triumph of good over evil through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Psalm 35:22-26 captures the psalmist’s plea for deliverance, commitment to praise God in all circumstances, appeal for divine intervention and vindication, and trust in God’s ultimate victory. This passage serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of turning to God in times of trouble, offering Him praise and thanksgiving, seeking His justice and righteousness, and trusting in His ultimate triumph over all adversity.
Psalms 35:27-28
The verses in Psalms 35:27-28 read, “Let them shout for joy and be glad, who favor my righteous cause; And let them say continually, ‘Let the Lord be magnified, Who has pleasure in the prosperity of His servant.”‘ And my tongue shall speak of Your righteousness and of Your praise all the day long. The psalmist in these verses is calling upon those who support his cause to rejoice and be happy. The phrase “favor my righteous cause” indicates that the psalmist believes his cause is just and in accordance with God’s will. This speaks to the theme of divine justice and righteousness that runs throughout the Bible. The psalmist is encouraging those who support him to constantly magnify the Lord, recognizing His role in the prosperity and well-being of His servants.
The concept of God’s pleasure in the prosperity of His servant echoes other verses in the Bible that speak about God’s care and concern for His people. God stated in Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”” This verse reinforces the idea that God delights in the prosperity and success of His children.
The psalmist also expresses his intention to continuously speak of God’s righteousness and to praise Him throughout the day. This reflects a deep faith and commitment to God, recognizing His attributes and giving Him the glory and honor He deserves. It is a reminder for believers to continually proclaim God’s goodness and faithfulness in their lives, serving as a testimony to His greatness. These verses in Psalms 35 call us to praise and glorify God for His righteousness, mercy, and provision. They encourage believers to remain steadfast in their faith, trusting in God’s desire for their well-being and acknowledging His sovereignty in all aspects of their lives. The psalmist’s words resonate through the ages, reminding us to always give thanks and speak of God’s righteousness and praise.
After Psalms 35
The psalmist in this chapter has cried out to the Lord for deliverance from his enemies. He has poured out his heart, seeking justice and protection from those who seek to harm him unjustly. Through his words, we are reminded of the power of prayer and the faithfulness of God to hear the cries of His people. The psalmist pleads for help, and we should remember that we can turn to the Lord in our times of trouble. Just as the psalmist found comfort and strength in God’s presence, so too can we find refuge in Him. We should hold fast to our faith and trust that God will always be our shield and defender in the face of adversity.
Reverend Michael Johnson is an experienced Church Minister with a profound expertise in spirituality and guidance. With a serene presence and a compassionate heart, he has faithfully served his congregation for over 20 years, leading them on a spiritual journey towards inner peace and enlightenment. Reverend Johnson’s extensive knowledge of religious philosophies and profound understanding of human nature have made him a trusted confidant and mentor to many, as he seamlessly weaves his profound wisdom into life teachings. Reverend Johnson’s calming demeanor and empathetic nature continue to uplift and heal souls, nurturing a sense of unity and tranquility within his community.