Insults & Lies (Psalm 4)

When afflicted, insulted, and lied about, do we pray? Are we angry without sin, do we trust in the Lord, do we have gladness in our hearts and lie down and sleep in peace? Let’s look at Psalm 4.

Did the Psalmist ask God for help in the midst of insults and lies from men in high positions? Have we ever experienced that?

Answer me when I call, God, who vindicates me. You freed me from affliction; be gracious to me and hear my prayer. How long, exalted men, will my honor be insulted? How long will you love what is worthless and pursue a lie? Selah (Psalm 4:1-2 HCSB)

How do we engage with our accusers yet remain holy, not becoming like them? How do we forgive, and still defend ourselves?

But understand this: the Lord has set apart the godly for himself! The Lord will hear me when I cry out to him! Be angry, yet do not sin. Think about this when upon your beds, and be silent. Interlude (Ps 4:3-4 ISV)

Instead of countering evil with evil, should we use a righteous approach, trusting the Lord for the outcome?

Offer the sacrifices of righteousness, and put your trust in the Lord. There be many that say, Who will shew us any good? Lord, lift thou up the light of thy countenance upon us. (Ps 4:5-6 KJV)

We can’t avoid all the bullies in life, but can we ask God for gladness of heart and safety?

You have put gladness in my heart, More than when their grain and new wine abound. In peace I will both lie down and sleep, For You alone, O Yahweh, make me to abide in safety. (Ps 4:7-8 LSB)

What did Jesus say about such people who make themselves our enemies?

You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may prove yourselves to be sons of your Father who is in heaven; for He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. (Mat 5:43-45 NASB)

When afflicted, insulted, and lied about, do we pray? Are we angry without sin, do we trust in the Lord, do we have gladness in our hearts and lie down and sleep in peace? You decide!