Psalm 31: Redeemed!

Psalm 31 “is a heartfelt prayer for deliverance from trouble, enlivened by a sincere trust in God’s ability to deliver. It is characterized by a galaxy of rich figures describing the distress of the persecuted and the hope that comes in time of trouble. Some suggest as its background the experience of David in the Wilderness of Maon (see 1 Sam. 23:19–26).” David trusts God, for he has been redeemed (Psalm 31:5). Jesus likewise trusts His Father completely when He cries, “Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit” (Luke 23:46).

“We too, in the hour of extremity, can safely trust our case to God.” David knows God is aware of his troubles, yet he stresses to the Lord just how trying his mental predicament is and the physical toll it is taking (Psalm 31:9, 10). He is cut off by friends and neighbors who fear being seen in his presence (v. 11). Rejected by society, he has been slandered and fears trusting anyone (v. 13). Yet he maintains faith in the Lord (v. 14).

“Verses 14–18 are an expression of great trust, in which, despite the anguish expressed in vs. 9–13, the psalmist says, ‘Thou are my God.’ This is the triumph of faith.” David implores the Lord to turn His face toward him and be merciful, for this is in keeping with God’s character (v. 16). How great is God that He offers sanctuary to those who trust in Him (v. 19)! “Thou shalt hide them in the secret of thy presence from the pride of man: thou shalt keep them secretly in a pavilion from the strife of tongues” (v. 20). Beset by troubles, David, in a moment of despair, feels cut off from God; nevertheless, God still hears his plea for help (v. 22).

David concludes by inviting all saints to be of good courage during adversity (vv. 23, 24). “Hope is a tonic to Christian experience.” “Redeemed! how I love to proclaim it! / Redeemed by the blood of the Lamb.”