But I Give Myself to Prayer...

In return for my love they are my accusers,

But I give myself to prayer.—Psalm 109:4

David begins and ends this imprecatory psalm rightly, by praising the true Judge of the universe.  There are times when I, like David, want to be the judge and pronounce judgment on my own accusers.  Thankfully because God has poured out His love in my heart by His Holy Spirit, these feelings don’t last long.   I really don’t want vengeance on them.  In truth, and only by His grace, I desire what Jesus desires for them...salvation.  

God’s arm is not short.  I know He can and will do exceedingly abundantly above all that I can ask or think. His timing, however, is not mine and neither are His ways (Praise God!). I love what David says in verse 4... if you blink you could miss it:

“But I give myself to prayer.”

Prayer is the true antidote for David and for us, when we find ourselves surrounded by those who would reward us evil for good and hatred for our love. 

Thank You Father, that judgment is not in my hands.  Thank You that Your judgments are true and altogether righteous.  Thank You that Your compassions fail not. Thank You that You have pleaded the case for my soul and said,  “Do not fear!” for You have redeemed my life.  O Lord, You see how I am wronged. You have seen all their vengeance, all their schemes against me. You have heard their reproach.  Judge my case, O God of my righteousness.  I am poor and needy, and my heart is wounded within me! But You, O GOD the Lord, deal with me for Your name’s sake; because Your mercy is good, deliver me. Help me, O LORD my God! Oh, save me according to Your mercy, that they may know that this is Your hand--That You, LORD, have done it!

Jesus speaking...

“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:43-45a).

Beloved, our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms” 

Jesus had enemies . . . and they crucified Him. Our God loves the world so much that He sent His only Son to die in our place so that we could be forgiven and live eternally with Him.  My Jesus did not leave this earth without praying for those who were responsible for His death. Jesus, who told us to love and pray for our enemies, demonstrated the ultimate gift of love while hanging on the cross: “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34a). Jesus prayed for His enemies . . . how can we do less?

 I will greatly praise the LORD with my mouth;

Yes, I will praise Him among the multitude.

For He shall stand at the right hand of the poor,

To save him from those who condemn him—Psalm 109:30-31