In what ways can we respond to mockery as seen in Psalm 35:15? Reading the scene: Psalm 35:15 in context “ But at my stumbling, they gathered in glee; they gathered together against me—assailants I did not know—slanderers who would not be silent.” (Psalm 35:15) David paints a picture of people crowding around him, laughing at his pain, and spreading lies without restraint. What follows (vv. 16-17) shows them “gnashing their teeth” and taunting him. The psalm becomes a model for everyone who is mocked for righteousness’ sake. Recognizing mockery: what David faced • Public humiliation: “gathered in glee” implies a crowd enjoying his downfall. • Baseless accusations: “assailants I did not know” signals false, surprise attacks. • Unrelenting chatter: “slanderers who would not be silent” means the ridicule was ongoing. Understanding the nature of mockery helps shape our response. Responding to mockery: biblical principles 1. Entrust the matter to God • David immediately turns to prayer (Psalm 35:17, 22-24). • 1 Peter 2:23: “When He was insulted, He did not retaliate; when He suffered, He made no threats.” Practical step: verbalize, “Lord, You see this. I hand it to You.” 2. Guard the tongue • Psalm 39:1: “I will watch my ways so that I will not sin with my tongue.” • Proverbs 15:1: “A gentle answer turns away wrath.” Practical step: refuse to trade insult for insult, even in private conversation or online. 3. Pray for your mockers • Psalm 35:13-14 shows David fasting and praying when they were in trouble. • Matthew 5:44: “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” Practical step: name them before God; ask that He draw them to repentance. 4. Reaffirm your identity in the Lord • Psalm 35:27: “The LORD… delights in the wellbeing of His servant.” • Ephesians 1:6: you are “accepted in the Beloved.” Practical step: rehearse what God says about you when mockery tries to redefine you. 5. Keep doing what is right • Psalm 37:3: “Trust in the LORD and do good.” • Romans 12:21: “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” Practical step: serve someone in need; kindness counters cynicism. 6. Wait for God’s vindication • Psalm 35:24: “Vindicate me, O LORD my God, according to Your righteousness.” • Isaiah 54:17: “No weapon formed against you shall prosper.” Practical step: set a mental deadline aside; trust God’s timing rather than your own. 7. Celebrate God’s faithfulness in advance • Psalm 35:28: “My tongue will proclaim Your righteousness, Your praises all day long.” • Habakkuk 3:17-18: rejoice even before circumstances change. Practical step: sing or speak praise intentionally when ridicule is fresh. 8. Stay in godly community • Hebrews 10:24-25 urges believers to encourage one another. • Ecclesiastes 4:12: “A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” Practical step: share the struggle with mature believers who will speak truth and pray. 9. Look to the ultimate example—Christ • Psalm 22 (prophetic of Christ’s mockery) parallels Psalm 35. • Hebrews 12:2-3: “Consider Him who endured such hostility… so that you will not grow weary.” Practical step: meditate on the cross; remember He bore ridicule so you can face yours with grace. Living it out Responding to mockery is never passive resignation; it is active faith. By entrusting the situation to God, guarding our words, praying for enemies, and continuing in righteousness, we mirror David’s example and, more importantly, the example of our Lord. |
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