Psalm 129

Plea of the Persecuted

In the "degrees" of Christian virtue Psalm 129 corresponds to the tenth step, which is patience in adversity. ~ H. T. Armfield

This psalm relates to the public concerns of God's Israel.  Scholars believe it was probably penned when they were in captivity in Babylon, or about the time of their return.  They look back with thankfulness for the former deliverances, and forward with a believing prayer for the destruction of all the enemies of Zion. 

The psalm sings

• the trials of Israel, v 1-3
• the intervention of the Lord, v 4
• the unblessed condition of Israel's foes, v. 5-8



Thus, let all Your enemies perish, O Lord!
but let those who love Him be like the sun
When it comes out in full strength.
~ Judges 5:31



If we be the people of God, and persist in wrestling against His enemies, we need not fear but that we shall be victorious.

 ~ Alexander Henderson



Regarding verses 7 & 8, Spurgeon comments:

In harvest times in Israel, men bless each other in the name of the Lord; but there is nothing in the course and conduct of the ungodly man to suggest the giving or receiving of a benediction.  It would be infamous to compromise the name of the righteous Jehovah by pronouncing his blessing upon unrighteous deeds.

We see that very thing today . . . a culture compromising God's name by pronouncing God's blessing on unrighteous deeds.  Matthew Henry calls it "prostituting" God's name!  If we truly know Him . . . truly seek His will and His word, we will know and clearly discern that which is unrighteous and sinful - speak out against it and turn from it!

WHAT CAN I LEARN ABOUT GOD THROUGH THIS PSALM:

• God is righteous
• God intervenes on behalf of His people
• God will defeat His enemies

HOW CAN I PRAISE GOD THROUGH THIS PSALM:

• I praise God that the Lord sees my afflictions . . . and that my enemies will not ultimately prevail against me

PRAYER:

    Heavenly Father, You know my great need.  Graciously draw near to me and protect me in the day of battle, that those evils which the craft and subtlety of the devil or others work against me may be brought to nothing and, by the provision of Your goodness, may be dispersed. ~ F. B. Meyer