Psalms 35:17
Lord, how long wilt thou look on? rescue my soul from their destructions, my darling from the lions.
Psalms 35:17 (KJV)
Context
Psalm 35 is David’s lament against enemies who falsely accuse him and repay his kindness with harm. In this verse, his patience is wearing thin as he pleads for God to act. He has already asked the Lord to contend with those who contend with him (Psalm 35:1), and he later expresses confidence that God will vindicate him (Psalm 35:24-27). Here, David’s cry is urgent: God sees his suffering, yet deliverance has not come.
Meaning
David asks, “Lord, how long wilt thou look on?” He knows God sees his plight, but God has not yet intervened. This is not unbelief but an honest cry from a man whose life is under severe threat. “Rescue my soul” means “save my life,” for his enemies seek to destroy him. The word “darling” refers to David himself, describing his life as precious and unique. The “lions” are a metaphor for his enemies, who are fierce and ready to tear him apart. David appeals to God’s intimate care, calling his own soul his darling, the one thing most dear.
Biblical connections
The imagery of lions appears elsewhere to describe enemies, as in Psalm 22:13, where foes open their mouths like a ravening lion. Here, it highlights the ferocity of David’s adversaries. The broader theme of God as deliverer of the righteous is seen in Psalm 34:17-19, where the Lord hears the cry of the righteous and delivers them from all their troubles. This verse also points forward to Christ, who faced the “roaring lion” of evil and death, yet God rescued Him through resurrection, giving hope to all who trust in Him.
Application
Bring honest emotions to God. David poured out his frustration and fear. We can do the same, knowing that God welcomes our struggles and cares for us.
Trust God’s timing. David longed for immediate relief, but God’s ways and timing may differ from ours. We can rest in His perfect wisdom and sovereignty.
Seek deliverance from enemies. David turned to God for rescue from those who sought to harm him. We can bring our troubles and adversaries to the Lord, who is our refuge and strength.
Rely on God’s protection. David’s plea shows his dependence on God’s care. As believers, we can trust God to safeguard us from spiritual and physical harm.
Reflection
David’s cry teaches us that faith and lament can exist together. He did not hide his pain from God, nor did he stop trusting in God’s power to save. When deliverance seems delayed, we can follow his example: speak honestly to the Lord, remember that He sees our suffering, and wait with hope for His saving hand.
