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A Study of an Imprecatory Prayer I

Text: Psalm 35:1-8
23 September 2019

A STUDY OF AN IMPRECATORY PRAYER I

1. This is a valid prayer

2. It has to be carefully studied before attempting to apply it in life

UNDERSTANDING THE CONTEXT

1. Historical

a) Enemies of David

b) Enemies of the state

c) Enemies of the LORD

2. Notation of the Enemies and their wicked activities

a) They are those who strive with David   (Psalm 35:1)

b) They fight against him   (Psalm 35:1)

c) They pursue him   (Psalm 35:3)

d) They seek to dishonour him   (Psalm 35:4)

e) They seek to take his life   (Psalm 35:4)

f) They plot his hurt   (Psalm 35:4)

g) They have sought to a lay a trap without cause   (Psalm 35:7)

ELEMENTS OF THE IMPRECATORY PRAYER

1. With reference to God

a) That God would plead his cause   (Psalm 35:1)

b) That God would fight for him
And against the enemies   (Psalm 35:1)

c) That God would put on His battle armour

i) Stand up for his help   (Psalm 35:2)

ii) Take hold of shield and buckler   (Psalm 35:2)

iii) Draw the spear   (Psalm 35:3)

d) Stop the pursuers   (Psalm 35:3)

e) Speak to David for assurance

“I am your salvation”   (Psalm 35:3)

2. With reference to the enemies

a) Let them be put to shame   (Psalm 35:4)

b) Let them be turned back   (Psalm 35:4)

c) And be brought to confusion   (Psalm 35:4)

d) Let them be like chaff before the wind   (Psalm 35:5)

e) Let the angel of the LORD chase them   (Psalm 35:5, 6)

f) Let their way be slippery and dark   (Psalm 35:6)

g) Let destruction come unexpectedly   (Psalm 35:8)

h) Let his net catch himself   (Psalm 35:8)

i) Let him fall to his own destruction   (Psalm 35:8)