What does Psalm 71:11 reveal about the nature of human opposition? Setting the Scene in Psalm 71 • Psalm 71 is the voice of a faithful believer in old age, recalling God’s lifelong care while facing fresh threats. • The psalmist does not minimize opposition; he names it honestly, then turns to God for rescue. Listening to the Taunt — Psalm 71:11 “ ‘God has forsaken him; pursue him and seize him, for there is no one to rescue him.’ ” What This Reveals About Human Opposition • Opposition attacks where faith feels weakest. – The enemies assume that distress equals divine abandonment. • Opposition twists theology. – They interpret suffering as evidence that God has left. • Opposition seizes moments of vulnerability. – “Pursue … seize” shows a readiness to exploit any perceived opening. • Opposition aims at total ruin, not mere irritation. – Their goal is capture, removal of all hope, “no one to rescue.” • Opposition underestimates God’s covenant faithfulness. – They misread temporary silence or trial as permanent desertion. Patterns Echoed Elsewhere in Scripture • Job’s wife: “Curse God and die!” (Job 2:9) – assumes God’s blessing has ended. • Shimei shouting at David: “The LORD has repaid you” (2 Samuel 16:7–8). • Mockers at the cross: “He trusts in God; let God rescue Him now” (Matthew 27:43). • Each case features the same lie: God has walked away. Timeless Truths for Today • Expect opposition to question God’s nearness precisely when trials hit. • Measure accusations against the unchanging promises of God (Deuteronomy 31:6; Hebrews 13:5). • Remember that Scripture portrays God’s apparent silence as a test of faith, not a sign of abandonment (Psalm 22:1–3). • Let the certainty of God’s faithful presence, proven in Christ, undercut every taunt that begins, “God has forsaken you.” |
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