Opposition to the Faithful
2 Tim 3:12 says, “all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.” Have you ever faced slander or been maligned because of your faith in Jesus Christ? Do family members think you are a “too religious?” Or do people avoid you or consider you an oddity because you think and act differently than the world around you. If this is you, then know that you are in good company. Followers of Christ have faced this same opposition for thousands of years (John 15:25). David in Psalm 69 faced trouble as well for his faith.
David is in the midst of tremendous trials. Because of his zeal for the Lord (69:8), he is hated without cause for his faith by many, and they are spreading lies about him (69:4). Even more painfully, his family has distanced themselves from him (69:8). Opposition to God and His truth of causes hatred of His people (69:9).
David is an example to all believers who face opposition. David repeatedly asks God to answer his prayer, all the while appealing to the character of God (69:16). He uses phrases common to all in distress: “save me,” “overwhelmed,” “answer me,” “turn to me,” “do not hide your face,” “draw near to me,” “redeem me,” and “ransom me” (69:14-18). He understands that God will respond in His timing (69:13) and prays for God’s justice upon those who persecute believers (69:19-28). Even though he is in great affliction he offers up praise to God because he knows that “the Lord hears the needy” (69:29-33). He calls the world to praise God because He will save His people, and they will receive the inheritance promised them (69:34-36). Brethren, know that God is near to His people. No matter what the world does, God’s love endures forever to those who love Him.