Occasionally I read something in the Bible I find cringe-worthy. This assault on my modern sensibilities is one reason I read the Scriptures. I need the prod to my smug belief in up-to-date thinking.

But still, I had to pause and read several times David’s prayer against the enemies he felt surrounded him like lions, waiting for the right moment to pounce.

May what you have stored up for the wicked fill their bellies; may their children gorge themselves on it, and may there be leftovers for their little ones.

Like Al Capone in the Untouchables, David wanted them dead. A prayer for vengeance on his enemies, and their babies? Feels way out of bounds.

David prayed in his fear and frustration, just he prayed at times of expansive joy. He prayed honestly. David prayed fervently. He prayed with shameless audacity. David prayed and prayed.

I’m so glad David put his prayers to paper for me to consider today. Like David, I can express everything bubbling up from my soul to the Lord. I don’t need to wordsmith my prayers. Blurt them out rather than stuff them down.

I’m doubtful the Lord rained devastation on the children as David prayed. The Lord listens, but may not answer. But the good news is the Lord can handle whatever I bring before Him.

Psalm 17 in reading the Bible in 2023

Photo by Andre Hunter