O LORD, You have seen it; be not silent. O Lord, be not far from me. You have seen it, O LORDThis phrase begins with a profound acknowledgment of God's omniscience. The Hebrew root for "seen" is "רָאָה" (ra'ah), which implies not just a passive observation but an active, discerning, and understanding gaze. In the context of ancient Israel, this acknowledgment would have been a comfort to the faithful, affirming that God is fully aware of the injustices and struggles faced by His people. The invocation of "O LORD" uses the sacred name "Yahweh," emphasizing a personal and covenantal relationship with God. This phrase reassures believers that nothing escapes God's notice, and He is intimately involved in the lives of His followers. do not be silent O Lord be not far from me Persons / Places / Events 1. DavidThe author of Psalm 35, David is expressing his plea for God's intervention against his adversaries. He is a central figure in the Old Testament, known for his deep relationship with God and his role as the second king of Israel. 2. The LORD (Yahweh) The covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal presence and faithfulness. David calls upon Yahweh to act on his behalf. 3. Adversaries Though not named specifically in this verse, the context of Psalm 35 involves David's enemies who are unjustly attacking him. These adversaries represent those who oppose God's people. 4. The Psalmist's Distress The event of David's distress and his cry for help is a recurring theme in the Psalms, reflecting the trials faced by believers. 5. Divine Justice The overarching event is the appeal for divine justice, where David seeks God's intervention to uphold righteousness. Teaching Points God Sees and KnowsTrust that God is aware of our struggles and injustices. He is not distant or unaware of our circumstances. Call Upon the Lord In times of trouble, we should actively seek God's presence and intervention, just as David did. Patience in God's Timing Understand that God's response may not be immediate, but His timing is perfect. We must wait on the Lord with faith. Righteousness and Justice Uphold righteousness in our actions and trust God to bring justice, rather than seeking revenge ourselves. God's Nearness Remember that God is near to the brokenhearted and those who call upon Him in truth. Bible Study Questions 1. How does David's plea in Psalm 35:22 reflect his relationship with God, and how can we cultivate a similar relationship in our own lives?2. In what ways can we be assured that God sees and understands our personal struggles, as David expresses in this Psalm? 3. How does the theme of divine justice in Psalm 35:22 connect with the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament about loving our enemies? 4. What practical steps can we take to ensure we are seeking God's presence and intervention in our daily challenges? 5. How can we apply the principle of waiting on God's timing for justice in situations where we feel wronged or attacked? Connections to Other Scriptures Psalm 22Similar to Psalm 35, David cries out to God in distress, seeking His presence and deliverance from his enemies. 1 Samuel 24 This passage provides a historical context where David spares Saul's life, demonstrating his reliance on God's justice rather than taking matters into his own hands. Romans 12:19 Paul echoes the theme of leaving vengeance to God, reinforcing the idea of trusting in divine justice.
People David, PsalmistPlaces JerusalemTopics Hast, O, Silence, Silent, UnmovedDictionary of Bible Themes Psalm 35:22Library Specific References to Prophecy in the Gospels20. But, if it does not weary you, let the point out as briefly as possible, specific references to prophecy in the Gospels, that those who are being instructed in the first elements of the faith may have these testimonies written on their hearts, lest any doubt concerning the things which they believe should at any time take them by surprise. We are told in the Gospel that Judas, one of Christ's friends and associates at table, betrayed Him. Let the show you how this is foretold in the Psalms: "He … Various—Life and Works of Rufinus with Jerome's Apology Against Rufinus. Historical Summary and Chronological Tables. The Sixth Commandment The Ninth Commandment Question of the Comparison Between the Active and the Contemplative Life After the Scripture. Opposition to Messiah Unreasonable Notes on the Third Century Concerning Persecution Psalms Links Psalm 35:22 NIVPsalm 35:22 NLT Psalm 35:22 ESV Psalm 35:22 NASB Psalm 35:22 KJV Psalm 35:22 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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