Psalms 35:13

But as for me, when they were sick, my clothing was sackcloth: I humbled my soul with fasting; and my prayer returned into mine own bosom.

Psalms 35:13 (KJV)

Context

David wrote this psalm while enemies repaid his kindness with evil. The words “But as for me” mark a clear contrast between his conduct and theirs. When they were sick, he did not celebrate or ignore them. He mourned with them, showing genuine concern for their suffering.

Meaning

Sackcloth was a rough, uncomfortable cloth worn in times of grief or repentance. By wearing it, David expressed deep sorrow over the illness of others. Fasting meant giving up food to seek God earnestly. He humbled himself, setting aside his own comfort to intercede for them.

The last phrase, “my prayer returned into mine own bosom,” is a Hebrew picture of a gift brought back to the giver. It suggests his prayer was not answered as he hoped. Yet the prayer was not wasted. God saw his sincerity, and the psalmist kept a clear conscience before Him.

Biblical connections

This verse shows the heart of loving one’s enemies. Jesus later taught His followers to pray for those who mistreat them (Matthew 5:44). David’s example prepares us for that command. He did good to people who later did evil to him, and he left his vindication in God’s hands.

Application

We can follow David by showing tangible sympathy to those who oppose us. When they suffer, we can pray for them sincerely, even if they never thank us. Fasting and humble prayer are practical ways to express love that words alone cannot carry.

Unanswered prayer for others should not discourage us. The sincerity of our intercession is known to God, and He values it. We can trust Him with the outcome, just as David did.

Reflection

Do we respond to enemies with kindness or with revenge? David’s example calls us to a higher path. We can bring our honest prayers to God, knowing He sees every act of compassion and every humble fast. Our reward rests in Him, not in human approval.