Psalm 41

Read Psalm 41

“Blessed is the one who considers the poor.” David taught Israel to sing with confidence about the Lord's faithfulness. The Almighty would help the man who came to the aid of the needy. God would deliver him from many troubles. His health and reputation would be blessed because of his kindness to those who were oppressed.

David also recorded his own earnest plea: “Be gracious to me; heal me, for I have sinned against you!” Though David was the Lord's anointed, he was desperate for God's help. The king was gravely ill and his enemies were not seeking his recovery.

David wrote about a “close friend” who had turned against him. This man had enjoyed table fellowship with the king and now he was actively aiding those who sought David's death.

These words were especially fulfilled in a betrayal that Jesus experienced (John 13:18). Judas Iscariot had eaten the Lord's bread for three years, but then he turned against his Master.

Yet the psalm ends with great confidence. The Savior who endured such a sad attack from one of His companions knew that His heavenly Father delighted in Him. His enemies would not be victorious forever. God's eternal purpose would be fulfilled.

The Lord has not promised us that our lives will be easy. Nonetheless, He has assured us that when our days are over we will be able to see the perfect victory of God over every evil. Meanwhile our hearts have been humbled by this truth: “While we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly.” (Romans 5:6)

Prayer from A Book of Prayers

Lord God, You care for the weak and the poor, and You call us to follow You in this love for the needy. We see ourselves as desperate recipients of Your merciful condescension. Ruthless men seem to be everywhere, even among those who claim to be the friends of Your church. May Your name be blessed forever, as the weak of the earth are made mighty in Your strength.