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*Psalms 41*

As for me, you uphold me in my integrity, and you have set me before your face forever. Psalms 41:12

Interesting fact: David was sick, and his enemies expected him to be seriously ill. They were already rejoicing among themselves with the certainty that the illness was terminal. Another reason for David's sadness was the fact that one of the traitors had been a close friend of his in the past.

2- What this text teaches

V.1-3: David remembers that the Lord blesses those who help those in need (those who are weakened by ill health).

For David, it is comforting to know that he had followed the divine example by assisting, comforting and encouraging the sick. Now, he appropriates the promise

that the Lord would also deliver him in the day of evil.

David was certain that God would not deliver him into the hands of his enemies. Instead, He would give His servant all the grace he needed during his illness and then restore his health.

v.4-6: David presents his illness to God in prayer, confesses his sin and begs for healing as something he does not deserve.

Not all illness is a direct result of sin, as in the case of the elderly (it is part of the natural aging process).

But there is a direct connection between sin and illness and, in the slightest possibility of this being the case, the Christian must run to the presence of the Lord and confess his sin sincerely.

v.7-8: Many evil rumors were spreading, news that the illness was fatal and would lead to death. One of David's enemies had been his close friend. One of the greatest sorrows in life is to be betrayed by someone close to us. This is what Jesus felt when Judas betrayed him, and it is not an uncommon experience in the lives of those who follow the Master.

v.10: David turns to the Lord for mercy. David says, “Raise me up, that I may repay them as they deserve,” meaning that as king he had an obligation to suppress every attempt to overthrow his government. v.11-13 For David, the failure of his enemies’ schemes is a sign of God’s favor toward him. David was a man of integrity, despite his sins and weaknesses. Compared to his enemies, he was an example of virtue. It is quite possible that the Lord sustained him by seeing sincerity and righteousness in his life. God’s sustaining grace guarantees security for his life and a place in the presence of the heavenly King forever. Confident and serene, the psalmist raises his voice to bid farewell with a song of praise. Jehovah, the God of Israel who keeps his covenant, is worthy of worship from eternity to eternity. 3- How can we apply this in our lives David’s deliverance was a glimpse of the victory of Jesus, who defeated his enemies on the cross (Colossians 2:15). Peter said that God raised Jesus from the dead (Acts 2:24). Jesus won!

In Christ Jesus, we are more than conquerors!

Our pains and afflictions bring us closer to God. God always hears our prayers.

We need to keep believing in Him.

4- Reflection Question

Have you taken everything to God in prayer?