Bible Discussion Thread

Psalm 28 is alluding to an imprecatory mindset; in regard to verses 3 through 5 which basically states that the wicked should be allowed by God to be judged according to their deeds (like works in Great White Throne Judgment in Rev. 20:11-15.

The Psalm begins with a plea that God will not be silent; or perhaps that the Spirit of God would remain with David. In some ways today as we are sealed with the Spirit there is the promise that He will never leave us nor forsake us that is different than the role that the Holy Spirit had in the O.T. times where it tended to be more transient. It is hard scripturally to know what is referring to a temporal manifestation of the Spirit just as we sometimes experience now; and the permanent presence. Today; of course we no longer go to "Sheol" where all the dead went in the O.T. (see end of Luke 16). It is certain; however that a prayer not to be drawn away with the wicked (verse 3) is good advice even today as if we are not gazing upon Him we will be distracted by the world; flesh and the Devil and their voices.

The assurance of God hearing David (v. 6) gave him hope for that time and all eternity (v. 9).

The trickly part in verse 8 when he uses a plural term "their strength" could represent all anointed or a characteristic of all saints; it seems odd with the surrounding verses. Perhaps someone can look up the original languagae for clarification.

Hi Richard, I love this Psalm especially. It reminds me that God is only a breath away from us in any troubles we may have and that we should indeed turn to Him for help, protection, and deliverance from evil and the people who do the evil to us. I love how David immediately turned to praising God with song and uplifted hands when God answered his prayers. It is so easy for us to earnestly seek His help in times of danger and great need, but we can easily forget to be more earnest in our gratitude and praise when our life turns for the better. This Psalm is a good reminder to me of that. I also love how David turns from thinking about himself and prays for salvation for God's people. The last two verses (8-9) are especially wonderful:

The LORD is their strength. And He is the saving refuge of His anointed. Save Your people, And bless Your inheritance; Shepherd them also, and bear them up forever." (NIV)

How lovely and encouraging are these words. Not only was David praying for the people of his kingdom then, but also for all of God's people, even you and me. God answered David's prayer for our salvation. We never know how far reaching our prayers can be, even across thousands of years!