Finding Yourself in the Psalms

Psalm 35

A Psalm When It Seems That Only God is On Your Side

imprecatory Psalm
1-10 God, come and help
11-18 God, listen and judge sinners
19-28 God, protect your name
I. The Tactics of Satan’s Ambassadors
(2 Thessalonians 3:1-2, NIV) "Finally, brothers, pray for us that the message of the Lord may spread rapidly and be honored, just as it was with you. And pray that we may be delivered from wicked and evil men, for not everyone has faith."
2 Cor 11:13-15
A. Evil intention. 35:4
They wanted to kill David
B. Unfair advantage. 35:8
They set a TRAP.
Don’t expect Satan to PLAY by the RULES
C. False accusations. 35:11
One of the SEVEN THINGS God hates. Prov 6:17-19
D. Malicious treatment. 35:12 “it’s not fair!”
“They repay evil for good.”
David describes his actions toward these individuals
• compassion in sickness v. 13
• humility v. 13 “humbled myself with fasting”
• prayer v. 13
• respect v. 14
“They offered no help – they treated me with evil” v 15
E. Relentless antagonism. 35:15 “they slandered me without ceasing.” “When will they quit?”
F. Cruel mocking. 35:16
II. The Defense of God’s Children
A. David Turns to God
• 35:1 “contend O LORD”
• 35:1 “fight with those who fight against me”
• 35:2 “take up shield and buckler”
• 35:3 “brandish spear and javelin
• 35:4 “say to my soul – I am your salvation”
B. David Thanks God.
• 35:10
• 35:18
• 35:28
Each stanza ends with thanksgiving!

The odds are in your favor, when God is on your side!

Trust Him when dark doubts assail thee, Trust Him when thy strength is small, Trust Him when to simply trust Him Seems the hardest thing of all.

Trust Him, He is ever faithful, Trust Him, for his will is best, Trust Him, for the heart of Jesus

Is the only place of rest. — Author unknown.