Psalm 70:2

May those who seek my life be ashamed and confounded; may those who wish me harm be repelled and humiliated.

Study Bible

May those who seek my life
This phrase reflects a plea for deliverance from adversaries. The Hebrew root for "seek" is "בָּקַשׁ" (baqash), which implies an intense pursuit or desire. Historically, David, the attributed author of this psalm, often faced life-threatening situations, particularly from King Saul and other enemies. This phrase captures the urgency and desperation of someone pursued by those who wish to harm him. In a broader spiritual context, it can symbolize the believer's struggle against spiritual adversaries, echoing the New Testament's call to be vigilant against the devil's schemes (1 Peter 5:8).

be ashamed and confounded
The words "ashamed" and "confounded" are translated from the Hebrew "בּוֹשׁ" (bosh) and "חָפֵר" (chapher), respectively. "Bosh" conveys a sense of disgrace or humiliation, while "chapher" suggests being perplexed or confused. In the ancient Near Eastern culture, honor and shame were significant social constructs. To be shamed or confounded was to lose face and status. David's prayer is for his enemies to experience the same confusion and disgrace they intended for him. Spiritually, this can be seen as a call for God's justice, where evil plans are thwarted and turned back upon the evildoers.

who wish me harm
This phrase underscores the malicious intent of David's adversaries. The Hebrew word for "harm" is "רָעָה" (ra'ah), which denotes evil or wickedness. The psalmist is not merely facing opposition but is targeted by those who actively desire his downfall. This reflects the reality of spiritual warfare, where believers contend not just with physical adversaries but with spiritual forces of evil (Ephesians 6:12). The prayer is for divine intervention against those who plot wickedness, trusting in God's righteousness to prevail.

be turned back and humiliated
The phrase "be turned back" comes from the Hebrew "שׁוּב" (shuv), meaning to return or retreat. "Humiliated" is derived from "כָּלַם" (kalam), which implies being put to shame. The imagery here is of enemies being forced to retreat in disgrace, a reversal of their intentions. In the historical context, this could refer to military defeat or personal vindication. Spiritually, it signifies the triumph of God's justice, where evil is not only stopped but also publicly exposed and shamed. This reflects the biblical theme of God as the defender of the righteous, who ultimately brings about justice and vindication for His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
Traditionally attributed as the author of this Psalm, David often found himself in situations where he was pursued by enemies, seeking God's deliverance.

2. Enemies of David
These are the individuals or groups who sought to harm David, representing broader spiritual adversaries in the life of a believer.

3. God
The ultimate deliverer and protector whom David calls upon for help and vindication.

Teaching Points

Dependence on God for Deliverance
Just as David relied on God to protect him from his enemies, believers today are called to trust in God's power and sovereignty in the face of adversity.

The Reality of Spiritual Warfare
David's plea for his enemies to be confounded and turned back reflects the spiritual battles Christians face. We must be vigilant and prayerful, recognizing that our struggle is not against flesh and blood.

The Power of Prayer in Times of Trouble
David's example teaches us the importance of turning to God in prayer when we are in distress. Prayer is a powerful tool for seeking God's intervention and peace.

The Assurance of God's Justice
The request for enemies to be ashamed and humiliated underscores the belief in God's ultimate justice. Believers can find comfort in knowing that God will right wrongs in His perfect timing.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's approach to dealing with his enemies in Psalm 70:2 inform our understanding of handling conflicts in our own lives?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of seeking God's deliverance in our daily spiritual battles, as seen in Psalm 70:2 and Ephesians 6:12?

3. Reflect on a time when you felt surrounded by adversaries or challenges. How did prayer play a role in your response, and what can you learn from David's example?

4. How does the theme of God's justice in Psalm 70:2 encourage you to trust in God's timing and plan, especially when facing injustice?

5. Considering the connections between Psalm 70:2 and other scriptures like Psalm 35 and 2 Samuel 22, how can we cultivate a heart of praise and gratitude for God's past deliverances in our lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 35
This Psalm also contains prayers for deliverance from enemies, showing a consistent theme in David's life of seeking God's intervention against adversaries.

2 Samuel 22
David's song of deliverance, where he praises God for rescuing him from his enemies, provides a account context for his prayers in the Psalms.

Ephesians 6:12
This New Testament passage speaks to the spiritual nature of our battles, connecting the physical enemies of David to the spiritual warfare Christians face.