Seventeen-year-old Shareef Cousin found himself the youngest person in the United States on death row. Shareef had been convicted of murder even though he had what seemed like an airtight alibi. Afterward it was determined that the detective on the case lied to obtain an arrest warrant. The only actual eyewitness to the crime had mistakenly identified Shareef as guilty. Shareef served four years in prison before the verdict was overturned, and he was set free.
In this psalm, David laments that a certain Cush had falsely accused him of crimes. We do not know any specifics about this situation from the Bible, but based on this psalm it is clear that David was being accused of betraying a friend and of robbery (v. 4). This puts David in a precarious position. He describes his accuser as a lion who wanted to “rip me to pieces” (v. 2). In this stressful situation, David pleads for God’s help.
David appealed to God’s justice. He knew that God is perfectly righteous and that no secret was hidden from Him. God is able to probe the “minds and hearts” of any person (v. 9). David asked God to be true to His character and vindicate him from the injustice and rage of his enemies (v. 6). David put his hope in God as his “shield” and protector (v. 10).
David also expressed his trust in the moral structure of the world God created. He proclaimed, “Whoever is pregnant with evil conceives trouble and gives birth to disillusionment. Whoever digs a hole and scoops it out falls into the pit they have made” (vv. 14–15). David knew that, in general, we reap what we sow. Because of this, he gives thanks to the Lord and says he will “sing the praises of the name of the Lord Most High” (v. 17), even while facing injustice.
Pray with Us
As today’s devotional encourages, let’s thank the Lord of justice and mercy for His salvation extended to all who call on His name. May we remember, even when facing life’s wrongs, that God’s justice will be ultimately achieved!
BY Ryan Cook
Dr. Ryan Cook has taught at Moody Bible Institute since 2012. He earned his bachelor of arts in Bible and Theology from Moody and his master of arts in Old Testament from Grand Rapids Theological Seminary. He has worked in Christian education and served as a pastor in Michigan for seven years. During his time as a professor at Moody, he earned his doctorate from Asbury Theological Seminary. He now lives with his wife, Ashley, and their three children in the Chicagoland area.