A Call for Justice
We live in a world of injustice. We see the innocent oppressed, the wicked prosper, justice perverted , and the never ending selfishness of man. Injustice is most hurtful when we experience it ourselves on a personal level. David understands what you are going through and in Psalm 35 he is experiencing injustice on a personal level. People are slandering him (35:11), and opposing his rule (35:7). David asks for God to me “contend” and “fight” against those oppose him. He is seeking justice in a world of injustice.
Brethren, know that you will face injustice in this life. Just like David we experience hatred from people without cause (35:7), are afflicted and taken advantage of (35:10), and are hurt by those that we have treated only with kindness (35:12). David even says these are the same people that he has prayed for, helped when they were sick, and even considered his friends (35:35:12-14).
What do do we do when we face hardships from the people around us, even “friends”? We do as David does and turn to God for salvation (35:3,17). We can ask God for justice for the wicked in this world as he is a righteous and good God. (35:4-8). We also are to love and pray for enemies, knowing that God was patient with us and does not desire anyone to perish eternally (2 Peter 3:9). We know that if Christ suffered unjustly, we will suffer likewise ourselves (Jn 15:18). Even if we are not vindicated in this life we will be in next (Rev 6:9-11). Ultimately we trust God and echo David, “The LORD be magnified...my tongue shall declare your praise all day long” (35:27-28).