Psalm 58

 


Psalm 58 is another one of the "Do Not Destroy" psalms (Psalms 57, 58, 59, and 75), which might be related to an existing tune, to David's prayer not to be destroyed, or to 1 Samuel 26:9 where David said regarding Saul, “Do not destroy him, for who can put out his hand against the LORD’s anointed and be guiltless?”  It is also one of the Imprecatory Psalms (6, 35, 58, 69, 83, 109, 137).  In contrast to God's righteous judgment, the wicked judge unjustly, devise wrongs, and deal out violence.  Because of their sinfulness since birth, the wicked do not hear the voice of righteousness. Ultimately the righteous will be rewarded but the wicked judged.

Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm:
  • Verses 1-5
    • What do these verses show us about wicked rulers?
  • Verses 6-9
    • We may sometimes feel uncomfortable with these imprecatory prayers, however, when God judges righteously, destructive fangs are broken and wickedness can be dissolved as if never seeing the light of day.  Amidst the evil that we see in the world around us, pray now for God's intervention.
  • Verses 10-11
    • Despite the wording used, these verses are not about bloodthirsty vengeance but about rejoicing in God's righteous judgment and condemnation of evil.  In what ways do we see God's justice being done on earth?

If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following is a link to a YouTube video:
  • "There is a God Who Judges the Earth" by Jason Silver:  Link


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