Overview:
(NET) This psalm is almost identical to Ps 40:13–17. The psalmist asks for God’s help and for divine retribution against his enemies.If this psalm is identical to part of Ps 40 why did David or the editor of the book of Psalm repeat that here again? I think this is a psalm that people could memorize and use this prayer when they were in urgent need.
Observations:
(1) Twice in this psalm David asked God to help him in hurry v.1, 5 and do not delay v.5. Why?
(2) David asked God to help and rescue him by embarrassing/ashamed/disgracing those who tried to take his life. Why was he so specific? Why didn't he just ask God to punish them?
70:3 May those who say, “Aha! Aha!”
be driven back and disgraced!
(BDB) [Aha]=Of satisfaction over the misfortune of an enemy or rival.
In other words, David wanted to have victory over his enemies not only in military success, but also in the reputation. Once they were able to scorn David when he was oppressed. David asked God to put the shame back to them when God drove them back.
What made David request the immediate attention of God was the enemies who tried to take his life v.2 and they ridiculed him v.3.
Reflection: Do I share the same feeling as David? People can cause us pain not only physically, but also psychologically. Whatever they are God can rescue us from them.
(3) The second reason for David's urgent request was for the godly and oppressed people be able to praise God.
c
Audrey
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