Psalm 52
Verse 1 Why do you boast of evil, you mighty hero? Why do you boast all day long, you who are a disgrace in the eyes of God?
The title of this psalm tells us it was about the time when Doeg told Saul about David going to visit Ahimelek. We are talking about it today because it is important that we see there was much more to the story than the mere telling Saul that he had seen the king’s enemy. Doeg seems to think that being close to the king will give him more opportunities in life.
David seems to know the truth of what Doeg had done. Maybe David had seen him in Nob and knew that the fellow shepherd would spill the beans as to his whereabouts to the king so that Doeg could gain the favor of the king. David knew that Doeg was an image of what he could have been. They both understood sheep but they were seeking the approval of different kings.
In verse 3 David says that Doeg is a lover of evil. We know that although David makes mistakes just as we do in our spiritual walk, he truly was a man who loved God. He cared about God’s ways and will, even seeking out God’s will by visiting with priests so they could ask God for him which was common in that day. On the other hand Doeg wanted to make sure the king got all that he wanted maybe hoping to get some gifts or recognition for himself. The difference of loving God and loving evil reveals itself in who we are wanting to get the glory in our lives.
David also points out that the other shepherd loves lying. It wasn’t that Doeg had lied to Saul about David because he hadn’t, it was one of the many character traits that separated the two men. David would prove throughout his life that he knew the importance of truth. Doeg would add to the lies that were now clouding the king’s thoughts. David knew that this Edomite was not living for God and so his advice was not leading Saul in the way that God would have him lead God’s people.
David continues the psalm talking about how God is going to bring Doeg to ruin because of his dependence on the things of this world instead of God. The second shepherd’s heart was bound in the things of this world but David finishes his song by praising God and speaking about his own dependence on God and His ways. In this song David is reminding himself he needs to keep God first in his life.
Making It Personal
Do you have someone that you compare yourself with? Are they someone that would be an influence for Christ? Are you?
Making It Personal Kids
Have you ever compared yourself to someone? What about them did you like? Would they help you get to know Jesus better?
Closing Prayer
Father, thank You for the example of these two shepherds – one good and the other evil. Give us wisdom on how to live for You in a way that will help us reflect the light of truth and stay away from those who are enamored with evil. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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