Psalm 5: Consider My Lament

Psalm 5
Consider My Lament

1. Listen to my words, Lord, consider my lament.

11. But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you.

12. Surely, Lord, you bless the righteous; you surround them with your favor as with a shield.

◇ David's prayer appears to be deeply earnest. David acknowledges that God hates those who speak lies, deceive others, shed the blood of the innocent, and act with arrogance. However, he is distressed and beats his chest and the ground, questioning why God allows such deceitful, blood-shedding, and arrogant people to continue. He fervently calls for their condemnation, judgment, and destruction, and pleads for the protection of the innocent who revere and take refuge in God.

In the wars in Ukraine and Palestine, it is the innocent who bleed, not those who instigate the conflicts. These innocent people are the children in schools, the sick in hospitals, and those resting at home. Meanwhile, those who start wars, tell lies, and act arrogantly are far from the chaos of falling bombs, indulging in luxurious feasts and laughing.

♧ God, the King and Ruler of the world, consider our hearts. Just as you listened to David's lament, listen to our hearts. Be our refuge and protector. Hear our cries as we weep and wail, unable to speak. Condemn and judge those who are arrogant, deceitful, and cause bloodshed, and bring them to ruin. Holy Spirit, lead us in truth! Amen.