God of Justice

Seventeen-year-old Shareef Cousin found himself the youngest person in the United States on death row. Shareef had been convicted of murder even though he had what seemed like an airtight alibi. Afterward, it was determined that the detective on the case lied to obtain an arrest warrant. The only actual eyewitness to the crime had mistakenly identified Shareef as guilty. Shareef served four years in prison before the verdict was overturned, and he was set free.

In this psalm, David laments that a certain Cush had falsely accused him of crimes. We do not know any specifics about this situation from the Bible, but based on this psalm, it is clear that David was being accused of betraying a friend and of robbery (v. 4). This puts David in a precarious position. He describes his accuser as a lion who wanted to “rip me to pieces” (v. 2). In this stressful situation, David pleads for God’s help.

David appealed to God’s justice. He knew that God is perfectly righteous and that no secret was hidden from Him. God can probe the “minds and hearts” of any person (v. 9). David asked God to be true to His character and vindicate him from the injustice and rage of his enemies (v. 6). David put his hope in God as his “shield” and protector (v. 10).

David also expressed his trust in the moral structure of the world God created. He proclaimed, “Whoever is pregnant with evil conceives trouble and gives birth to disillusionment. Whoever digs a hole and scoops it out falls into the pit they have made” (vv. 14–15). David knew that, in general, we reap what we sow. Because of this, he gives thanks to the Lord and says he will “sing the praises of the name of the Lord Most High” (v. 17), even while facing injustice.

Go Deeper

Have you ever been falsely accused? What can we ask of the Lord when we face injustice in our lives? What can we trust He will do?

Pray with Us

Lord of justice, thank You for Your salvation that is extended to everyone who calls on Your name. May we remember, even when facing life’s wrongs, that Your justice will ultimately be achieved.

Amen.

Enjoyed this 7-Day devotional? Continue your journey of praying through the rest of the Psalms with the Today in the Word devotional, Talking With God: Daily Readings Through the Psalms by Dr. Ryan Cook.