PLEASE READ THIS FIRST: Psalm 35
What do you sense the Lord saying to you in this passage?
“Like the ungodly they maliciously mocked; they gnashed their teeth at me.” (Psalm 35:16)
David describes being rejected by godly people who are behaving like the ungodly.
The people who serve God are acting in the same way as those who reject God.
The people he expected God’s love from treated him with malice and mockery.
The one’s who should have spoken peace are grinding their teeth in disdain.
Have you ever experienced Jesus followers who act “like the ungodly”?
Have you ever had fellow christians chewing you up with their words?
We don’t know David’s exact situation, but I can think of situations in the church.
I have heard the mockery, I have witnessed the teeth-gnashing… IN CHURCH.
“Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing.
My brothers and sisters, this should not be.” (James 3:10)
David pleads for mercy from this treatment – is anyone pleading this way because of me?
The last thing I want to do is speak or act in a way that harms anyone.
Especially fellow Jesus followers who may believe or act differently than me.
Is the Spirit convicting you of someone you are mocking or chewing up with criticism?
PRAYER
Lord, forgive us as your followers when we behave like the ungodly. May we be agents of love, joy and peace… and not use our lips to praise you and curse others. THIS SHOULD NOT BE!
“Lord, you have seen this; do not be silent.” Sometimes the Lord seems slow in responding to an injustice or to our prayers – the Psalmist knows that God will vindicate and answer – but its in the waiting that we learn to wait patiently. God has His reasons for delay – we need to trust that. Sometimes things happen to us that challenge us. May we always see that God cares about us even when it seems like He is silent. Lord help me see the big picture to and to be reassured of your constant love for me! HS stay close and don’t give up on me!