Psalm 86:17

Show me a sign of Your goodness, that my enemies may see and be ashamed; for You, O LORD, have helped me and comforted me.

Study Bible

Show me a sign of Your goodness
This phrase reflects a plea for divine intervention and assurance. In biblical times, signs were often sought as confirmation of God's favor or presence, as seen in Gideon's request for a sign in Judges 6:36-40. The psalmist's request for a sign of goodness underscores a deep reliance on God's benevolence and faithfulness, echoing the covenantal promises made to Israel. It also points to the human desire for tangible evidence of God's care, which is fulfilled ultimately in the person of Jesus Christ, who is the embodiment of God's goodness and grace.

that my enemies may see and be ashamed
The psalmist desires not only personal reassurance but also a public vindication that would cause adversaries to recognize God's power and justice. This reflects the cultural context of honor and shame prevalent in ancient Near Eastern societies, where public perception was crucial. The theme of enemies being put to shame is recurrent in the Psalms (e.g., Psalm 25:2-3) and highlights the belief that God's intervention would lead to the defeat and humiliation of those who oppose His people. This anticipates the ultimate victory over spiritual enemies through Christ's resurrection.

for You, O LORD, have helped me and comforted me
The psalmist acknowledges past experiences of God's help and comfort, which serve as a foundation for present faith and future hope. This reflects a common biblical pattern of recalling God's past faithfulness as a basis for trust in current trials, as seen in the narratives of the Exodus and the Psalms. The use of "LORD" (YHWH) emphasizes the covenant relationship between God and His people. The dual mention of help and comfort points to God's comprehensive care, which is fully realized in the New Testament through the Holy Spirit, referred to as the Comforter in John 14:16.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
Traditionally attributed as the author of Psalm 86, David is seeking God's intervention and assurance in the face of his adversaries.

2. Enemies
The unspecified adversaries of David, representing those who oppose the righteous.

3. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, emphasizing His faithfulness and relationship with His people.

Teaching Points

Seeking Assurance from God
David's request for a sign of God's goodness is a model for believers to seek divine assurance in times of trouble.

God's Faithfulness
The verse emphasizes God's role as a helper and comforter, encouraging believers to trust in His faithfulness.

Witness to Others
The desire for enemies to see and be ashamed suggests that God's work in our lives can serve as a testimony to others.

Prayer in Adversity
David's prayer demonstrates the importance of turning to God in difficult times, seeking His intervention and comfort.

Confidence in God's Character
The verse reflects confidence in God's character, encouraging believers to rely on His goodness and mercy.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's request for a sign of God's goodness challenge us to seek God's presence in our own lives?

2. In what ways can God's intervention in our lives serve as a testimony to those around us, including our adversaries?

3. How does understanding God's role as a helper and comforter influence our response to personal trials?

4. What other biblical examples can you find where God provided a sign or assurance to His people?

5. How can we apply the principles of Psalm 86:17 in our prayer life, especially when facing opposition or challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 86:5
Earlier in the same Psalm, David acknowledges God's readiness to forgive and His abundant love, which sets the context for his plea for a sign of goodness.

Exodus 33:13
Moses asks God to show him His ways, similar to David's request for a sign, highlighting the desire for divine assurance.

Isaiah 41:10
God's promise to strengthen and help His people, paralleling the comfort and help David seeks.

John 14:27
Jesus speaks of giving peace, which aligns with the comfort David receives from God.