Psalm 55

Ahithophel caused David much grief in his betrayal. He eventually hung himself when he realized he had nowhere else to go due to his betrayal. This should remind you of Judas in the New Testament account of the betrayal of Jesus.

Psalm 55

This psalm was written by David in response to what his father-in-law, Ahithophel, did to him in 2 Samuel 15 (see our study). This is a consequence of David’s sin with Ahithophel’s granddaughter, Bathsheba (see our study of 2 Samuel 11 and 2 Samuel 12 along with the Consequences of David’s Sin). Ahithophel was a trusted counselor who joined in Absalom’s rebellion in response to David’s mistreatment of his family. His deception and treason caused David much grief as is evident in this psalm (13).

David will ask us to stop and ponder (selah) what he has written twice.

  • Verses 1-8-David’s desire to flee is overturned by his desire to present his case to the God of the Universe.

Selah: What drives you to your knees? Do you seek Him or an escape from your circumstances? Trusting Him to carry you through the tough times is the only way of escape that is biblical (1 Corinthians 10.12-13().

  • Verses 9-18-This is David’s response to what is happening in Jerusalem without leadership. Chaos occurs where no leader is present. Absalom was not a leader but a usurper. This is why we need God to be our leader for Satan, the only other alternative, is a usurper.

Verse 16 is the turning point of the psalm. David states “But I will call upon.” Despite the circumstances, we need to turn to God for help, comfort, and direction.

Selah: What is your “But” in life?

  • Verses 19-23-David describes Ahithophel now as an enemy. I wonder if this is what a divorced person feels toward their former spouse. In all this, David still seeks God. Verse 22 reminds us of the words of Jesus in Matthew 11.29-30 and Peter in 1 Peter 5.6-7.

Ahithophel caused David much grief in his betrayal. He eventually hung himself when he realized he had nowhere else to go due to his betrayal. This should remind you of Judas in the New Testament account of the betrayal of Jesus.

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Author: Pastor David

David R Williamson is the founder of Teach for God Ministries. He holds degrees from Grace Bible College, Grand Canyon University, Grace Theological Seminary, and Walden University. David has been actively involved in ministry since 1979. He has ministered in various ministries from Sunday School teacher, Youth Pastor, to English Pastor in Taiwanese churches, including teaching ten years at the Junior High school level. Currently, David is teaching at Hillcrest Christian School at the High School level. He is also pulpit supply and retreat speaker for churches and other religious organizations. He is happily married to Karen with three children: Joshua, Kazlyn, and Joseph

3 thoughts on “Psalm 55”

  2. Our griefs and our burdens can become so heavy. But God never deserts us.
    God will save us and give us peace form our distress when we call on Him and present Him with our troubles, like David in this psalm.
    I like verse 22. When we give everything to God, He will care for us and protect us.

  3. Pingback: Introduction to the Psalms | Old Testament Survey

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