For He has not despised or detested the torment of the afflicted. He has not hidden His face from him, but has attended to his cry for help. For He has not despised or detested the torment of the afflicted.This phrase emphasizes God's compassion and attentiveness to those who suffer. In the biblical context, the "afflicted" often refers to those who are oppressed or in distress, a theme prevalent throughout the Psalms. The use of "despised" and "detested" indicates a strong rejection, which God does not exhibit towards the suffering. This reflects God's character as one who is close to the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18). Historically, the afflicted could be seen as the marginalized in society, such as the poor or the sick, whom God consistently defends. This phrase also prophetically points to Jesus Christ, who, during His crucifixion, was not abandoned by God despite His suffering, fulfilling the messianic prophecy of the Psalm. Psa 51:17 The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit;… He has not hidden His face from him, In ancient Near Eastern culture, to "hide one's face" was a metaphor for rejection or disfavor. God's assurance of not hiding His face signifies His continual presence and favor. This is a reassurance of God's faithfulness, contrasting with human tendencies to turn away from those in distress. Biblically, God's face represents His presence and blessing (Numbers 6:24-26). Theologically, this phrase underscores the belief that God is always present, even in times of deep suffering, as seen in the life of Jesus, who, despite feeling forsaken on the cross, was ultimately in the presence of the Father. Psa 102:2 Do not hide Your face from me in my day of distress.… but has attended to his cry for help. This phrase highlights God's responsiveness to prayer and cries for deliverance. The act of attending implies active listening and intervention. Throughout scripture, God is portrayed as one who hears and responds to the cries of His people (Exodus 3:7). This is a recurring theme in the Psalms, where the psalmist often cries out to God in times of trouble and experiences His deliverance. In the New Testament, Jesus exemplifies this divine attribute by responding to those who call out to Him in faith, such as the blind men in Matthew 20:30-34. This phrase assures believers of God's readiness to respond to their pleas, reinforcing His role as a compassionate and attentive Father. Psa 34:17 The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears;… Persons / Places / Events 1. The AfflictedThis term refers to those who are suffering or in distress. In the context of Psalm 22, it is often seen as a prophetic reference to Jesus Christ, who experienced profound suffering. 2. The LORD (Yahweh) The covenant name of God, emphasizing His faithfulness and presence with His people, especially in times of distress. 3. The Psalmist (David) Traditionally attributed to King David, this psalm reflects his personal experiences of suffering and deliverance, while also pointing prophetically to the Messiah. 4. The Cross While not directly mentioned in this verse, the entire psalm is often seen as a foreshadowing of the crucifixion of Jesus, highlighting His suffering and ultimate vindication. 5. The Cry for Help Represents the prayers and supplications of those in distress, emphasizing the importance of turning to God in times of need. Teaching Points God's Presence in SufferingGod does not abandon those who are afflicted. He is present and attentive to their cries, offering comfort and hope. The Importance of Prayer In times of distress, turning to God in prayer is crucial. He listens and responds to the cries of His people. Prophetic Fulfillment Psalm 22 is a powerful example of how Old Testament scriptures point to the life and work of Jesus Christ, affirming the unity and divine inspiration of the Bible. Encouragement for the Afflicted Believers can find solace in knowing that God does not despise their suffering but is compassionate and responsive. Faithfulness of God This verse reassures us of God's unwavering faithfulness, encouraging us to trust Him even when circumstances seem dire. Bible Study Questions 1. How does understanding the context of Psalm 22 enhance our appreciation of Jesus' suffering on the cross?2. In what ways can we apply the truth that God does not hide His face from the afflicted in our daily lives? 3. How does the connection between Psalm 22 and Isaiah 53 deepen our understanding of Jesus as the suffering servant? 4. What practical steps can we take to ensure that we turn to God in prayer during times of personal affliction? 5. How can the assurance of God's faithfulness in Psalm 22:24 encourage us to support others who are experiencing suffering? Connections to Other Scriptures Isaiah 53This chapter describes the suffering servant, which Christians interpret as a prophecy about Jesus. It connects to the theme of affliction and God's response to the suffering of His servant. Hebrews 5:7 This verse speaks of Jesus' prayers and supplications during His earthly life, emphasizing His cries to God and God's response, paralleling the themes in Psalm 22:24. Matthew 27:46 Jesus quotes the opening of Psalm 22 on the cross, directly linking His suffering to the themes of the psalm. People David, Jacob, PsalmistPlaces JerusalemTopics Abhorred, Abominated, Afflicted, Affliction, Covered, Cried, Cry, Crying, Despised, Disdained, Face, Heareth, Hid, Hidden, Kept, Listened, Lowliness, Pain, Poor, Suffering, Troubled, UnmovedDictionary of Bible Themes Psalm 22:24 1255 face of God Library Feasting on the Sacrifice'The meek shall eat and be satisfied.'--PSALM xxii. 26. 'The flesh of the sacrifice of his peace-offering for thanksgiving shall be offered in the day of his oblation.' Such was the law for Israel. And the custom of sacrificial feasts, which it embodies, was common to many lands. To such a custom my text alludes; for the Psalmist has just been speaking of 'paying his vows' (that is, sacrifices which he had vowed in the time of his trouble), and to partake of these he invites the meek. The sacrificial … Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture On Turning the First Page of the Review which Follows... Messiah Derided Upon the Cross My Brethren. His Future Work His Head is as the Most Fine Gold, his Locks as the Clusters of the Palm, Black as a Raven. Note B. On the Word for Holiness. The Crucifixion. Brokenness The Death of Jesus Letter Xlv (Circa A. D. 1140) to the Canons of Lyons, on the Conception of S. Mary. Trials of the Christian How is Christ, as the Life, to be Applied by a Soul that Misseth God's Favour and Countenance. Bunsen's Biblical Researches. Judas' Betrayal and Peter's Denial Foretold. The Johannine Writings The Necessity of Actual Grace How to Make Use of Christ as the Truth, that we May Get Our Case and Condition Cleared up to Us. Interpretation of Prophecy. Of his Cross what Shall I Speak, what Say? this Extremest Kind of Death... Messiah Suffering and Wounded for Us Growth in Grace Covenanting Sanctioned by the Divine Example. Links Psalm 22:24 NIVPsalm 22:24 NLT Psalm 22:24 ESV Psalm 22:24 NASB Psalm 22:24 KJV Psalm 22:24 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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