Psalms - Chapter 55

Psalms 55.1 Give ear to my prayer, O God; and hide not thyself from my supplication. Psalms 55.2 Attend unto me, and hear me: I mourn in my complaint, and make a noise; Psalms 55.3 Because of the voice of the enemy, because of the oppression of the wicked: for they cast iniquity upon me, and in wrath they hate me. Psalms 55.4 My heart is sore pained within me: and the terrors of death are fallen upon me. Psalms 55.5 Fearfulness and trembling are come upon me, and horror hath overwhelmed me. Psalms 55.6 And I said, Oh that I had wings like a dove! for then would I fly away, and be at rest. Psalms 55.7 Lo, then would I wander far off, and remain in the wilderness. Selah. Psalms 55.8 I would hasten my escape from the windy storm and tempest. Psalms 55.9 Destroy, O Lord, and divide their tongues: for I have seen violence and strife in the city. Psalms 55.10 Day and night they go about it upon the walls thereof: mischief also and sorrow are in the midst of it. Psalms 55.11 Wickedness is in the midst thereof: deceit and guile depart not from her streets. Psalms 55.12 For it was not an enemy that reproached me; then I could have borne it: neither was it he that hated me that did magnify himself against me; then I would have hid myself from him: Psalms 55.13 But it was thou, a man mine equal, my guide, and mine acquaintance. Psalms 55.14 We took sweet counsel together, and walked unto the house of God in company. Psalms 55.15 Let death seize upon them, and let them go down quick into hell: for wickedness is in their dwellings, and among them. Psalms 55.16 As for me, I will call upon God; and the LORD shall save me. Psalms 55.17 Evening, and morning, and at noon, will I pray, and cry aloud: and he shall hear my voice. Psalms 55.18 He hath delivered my soul in peace from the battle that was against me: for there were many with me. Psalms 55.19 God shall hear, and afflict them, even he that abideth of old. Selah. Because they have no changes, therefore they fear not God. Psalms 55.20 He hath put forth his hands against such as be at peace with him: he hath broken his covenant. Psalms 55.21 The words of his mouth were smoother than butter, but war was in his heart: his words were softer than oil, yet were they drawn swords. Psalms 55.22 Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved. Psalms 55.23 But thou, O God, shalt bring them down into the pit of destruction: bloody and deceitful men shall not live out half their days; but I will trust in thee.

Psalms : Chapter 55

Psalm 55: Longing for Betrayal

Psalm 55, attributed to David, is a profound expression of the anguish felt in the face of a friend's betrayal. This intense lament invites us to reflect on how to cope with the pain caused by disloyalty. David's words reveal an emotional turmoil that resonates within each of us when faced with betrayal.

Fleeing or Turning to God

David finds himself in a state of despair, longing to flee the city to escape his pain. However, he chooses to cast his burden on God, demonstrating a renewed trust in divine providence. This psalm addresses essential themes such as broken friendship, urban violence, and the hope for renewed peace. It offers comfort to those experiencing deep disappointments.

Five Bible passages to deepen our reflection

Let's consider together five Bible passages that amplify the emotional journey described in this moving psalm:

2 Samuel 15:12

"While Absalom was offering the sacrifices, he sent for Ahithophel the Gilonite, David's counselor, to be summoned to his city of Gilo. Thus the conspiracy grew stronger, and Absalom's followers increased in number. »

This verse provides a possible historical context for Psalm 55, which many believe was written during Absalom's rebellion, illustrating the betrayal at the heart of David's life.

Matthew 26:14-15

“Then one of the Twelve, named Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests and asked them, ‘How much will you give me if I deliver him to you?’ And they set a price for him: thirty pieces of silver. »

This passage echoes the theme of betrayal by a close friend, reinforcing the sense of pain found in Psalm 55:12-14.

Philippians 4:6-7

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” »

These verses reflect the counsel in Psalm 55:22, inviting us to cast our cares on the Lord and find peace in Him.

1 Peter 3:10-11

“For whoever wants to love life and see good days must keep their tongue from evil and their lips from lying.” Turn away from evil and do good; pursue peace with patience. »

This passage refers to the desire for peace and the condemnation of lies, central themes in Psalm 55.

Revelation 21:4

"He will wipe away every tear from your eyes. There will be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying, nor pain, for the old order has passed away." »

This verse echoes the desire for freedom from suffering, as expressed in Psalm 55:6-8, and reminds us of the hope we have in God.

As we meditate on these passages, we are invited to bear our burdens before God, seek peace, and remember that even in the pain of betrayal, His presence comforts and guides us.