David’s Experience and Exhortation
Psalm 131
Rev. Dr. Devadosan Sugirtharaj
Introduction
Psalm 131 is one of the Songs of Ascents and is connected to two significant historical contexts. First, Saul accused David of ambition for Israel’s throne and pursued him because of it. Second, David’s wife Michal accused him of being undignified after he danced before the Ark of the Covenant. In this psalm, David rebuts these accusations, denying any pride, arrogance, or selfish ambition.
1. David Defended His Character (Psalm 131:1).
- David Defends His Humility (Psalm 131:1a).
- David counters accusations of pride, knowing that God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble. He demonstrates his humility in two ways: his heart is not haughty, and his eyes are not lofty. David recognizes that pride in the heart leads to arrogance and looking down on others, but he strives to maintain a humble posture before God and people.
- David Renounces Selfish Ambition (Psalm 131:1b).
- David rejects selfish ambition and refuses to focus on self-promotion or position. Instead, he waits patiently for God’s timing and plans. He understands that pride often manifests in intellectual pursuits and boasting about knowledge of hidden things, but David is satisfied with the revealed word of God, which guides him like a spiritual lamp.
2. David Declares His Content Heart (Psalm 131:2-3).
- Like a weaned child with its mother, David describes his soul as content and at peace with God. Just as a weaned child is satisfied with its mother’s presence, provision, and love, so David finds satisfaction and serenity in God alone.
- David then exhorts Israel to find the same contentment in the Lord. Based on his own experience, he encourages God’s people to put their hope and trust in the Lord, who is just, compassionate, wise, and always provides guidance and protection.
Conclusion
God is our all in all. True hope, trust, contentment, and satisfaction can only be found in Him. Nothing in this world can satisfy our deepest needs except God, who provides everything we need. Pursuing things that cannot satisfy only leads to disappointment; instead, let us put our hope in the Lord forever.