March 24 / Psalm 31:1-13

Psalm 31:1-13

I’ve got a number of comments for today’s Psalm, a couple of them from my Study Bibles. First, I don’t ever recall reading all the elements of a lament, but one of my Study Bibles listed them out:

• A cry for help (vv. 1-5)
• The psalmist’s situation (v. 4)
• Expression of confidence (v. 5)
• Protestation of innocence or prayer for vindication (v. 6)
• Grateful recognition for God’s help (vv. 7-8)

This lament is then repeated with the same elements in the second half of the Psalm – tomorrow!

So, in reading today’s Psalm, how many of you see Job? He’s right there, in verses 9-13! His own lament, before laments were ever formalized in the Psalms! I really see him in verses 11-12: Because of all my adversaries I have become a reproach, especially to my neighbors, and an object of dread to my acquaintances; those who see me in the street flee from me. I have been forgotten like one who is dead; I have become like a broken vessel. We can see all the elements of a lament as we read back through Job. It’s always nice when the Bible supports itself.

Finally, Jesus quotes v. 5a from the cross: Into your hand I commit my spirit; (Luke 23:46) He knew His psalms!