Psalm 109:5

Psalm 109:5

Evil for good

There is no doubt that this rift between David and his enemies ran deep! He had tried to “do the right thing”, to behave justly and correctly before God; he had sought to win their affections by being generous and kind, and he had always sought the best interests of all his companions. Additionally, David could hold up his hands and say that his actions had been driven by love and friendship, he had always tried to be a good ally to his companions and to act as a trustworthy confidante; he had laughed and joked with them, he had served them at his table, and he had given them no cause to turn against him. But turn they did, so much so that the spirit of friendship had degenerated into hatred and these men sought to do David harm.

What is it that causes such a breakdown in relationships? Jealousy is often a big factor, not just of David’s wealth and position but because he was who he was, a man of God and one who did good. Have you experienced that in your life, the fact that you seek to live a godly life and do good drives some people nuts? Have you, like David, lost good friends because of your unstinting service to the Lord God and a willingness to always do His will and speak out His name. It has certainly made me unpopular in some quarters and been at the heart of a number of broken relationships.

Another common cause of such conflicts is when godly people refuse to compromise. They uphold truth and live by God’s Word. There are many who do not understand this, even some Christians. Our devotion to God’s rules and the Bible will create the kinds of conflict that David encountered, and it can be very painful. If you are in these kinds of situations, do not blame yourself, this Psalm is written to help us see that righteous men and women are often treated unfairly and it can feel very isolating at times! 

 

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