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Psalm 35:22-28  

LORD, you have seen this; do not be silent. Do not be far from me, Lord. Awake, and rise to my defense! Contend for me, my God and Lord. Vindicate me in your righteousness, LORD my God; do not let them gloat over me. Do not let them think, “Aha, just what we wanted!” or say, “We have swallowed him up.” May all who gloat over my distress be put to shame and confusion; may all who exalt themselves over me be clothed with shame and disgrace. May those who delight in my vindication shout for joy and gladness; may they always say, “The LORD be exalted, who delights in the well- being of his servant.” My tongue will proclaim your righteousness, your praises all day long.

Those who had been on David’s side now opposed him. What caused the shift of alliance is not explained, but the very people David had invested in turned on him when he needed them the most. They responded to his situation with slander.

Maybe today you feel alone…like David did. There are family members or former friends who seem to be gloating over your distress, delighting in your difficult stretch. Instead of helping you up they seem intent on keeping you down.

If you can relate to David, I encourage you to pray his prayer in your own words.

Dear Father,

You see everything that is going on. You know the injustice being done. Do not be silent in this situation. Please come near to me. I need to feel You by my side. Please come and defend me. You are my God and Lord. I am in this with You. Fight with me. Fight for me. When You deliver I will declare Your praises all day long. In Jesus’ name. Amen.