David’s Painful Betrayal
June 12, 2022
Commentary
Like Psalm 54, this Psalm is about betrayal and treachery. In Psalm 54 the betrayal took place in David’s youth, before he was king. The betrayal referred to in this Psalm was from a member of his own family (his son) as well as by a close and trusted friend (Ahithophel) (v. 12). It must have broken David’s heart to see Ahithopel leading Absalom’s rebellion. Ahithopel had indeed been a special friend and helper to David. They thought alike and had mutual interests. David had a big heart and Ahithopel had a shrewd head. They had spent a lot of time together as they planned and worked together over matters of state (vv.13-14). This was the man who betrayed David and suddenly and viciously stabbed him in the back.
This is why David became angry and asked God to strike them dead (v. 15). It is likely that this request by David was not intended to be fulfilled literally. Yet the deaths of Ahithophel (II Samuel 17:23) and Absalom (II Samuel 18:14-15) were a fulfilment of this request. David says he is going to call upon the Lord in the morning, at noon and in the evening to save him and he has confidence the Lord will answer (vv. 16-17). There is certainly nothing wrong with this kind of priorities and the prayers of God’s people are effective. As we can see David does not intend to return evil for evil (vv. 16-17). Yet with the future hanging in the balance and the decisive battle still to be fought, David flings himself on God (v. 21).
Application
Have you ever been betrayed by someone who has been very close to you? If so what was your reaction? Do I try to take matters into my own hands or do I trust the Lord to work out things in His own time and for His glory?
Psalms 55:15– 23 (NET)
15 May death destroy them. May they go down alive into Sheol. For evil is in their dwelling place and in their midst.
16 As for me, I will call out to God, and the Lord will deliver me.
17 During the evening, morning, and noontime I will lament and moan, and he will hear me.
18 He will rescue me and protect me from those who attack me, even though they greatly outnumber me.
19 God, the one who has reigned as king from long ago, will hear and humiliate them. (Selah) They refuse to change, and do not fear God.
20 He attacks his friends; he breaks his solemn promises to them.
21 His words are as smooth as butter, but he harbors animosity in his heart. His words seem softer than oil, but they are really like sharp swords.
22 Throw your burden upon the Lord, and he will sustain you. He will never allow the godly to be shaken.
23 But you, O God, will bring them down to the deep Pit. Violent and deceitful people will not live even half a normal lifespan. But as for me, I trust in you.