Psalm 35: Fighting for God or Against God
In Psalm 35, David repeatedly cries out:
“Contend, Lord, with those who contend with me.”
“Fight against those who fight against me.”
“Take up shield and armor; arise and come to my aid.”
This language may sound like weakness, but it reveals deep spiritual wisdom: though David was a mighty warrior with a powerful army, he chose not to fight his own personal battles. He fought God’s battles and entrusted his own battles to the Lord.
A Consistent Pattern in David's Life
Twice David was on the run—from Saul and later from Absalom—and in both situations, though capable, he refused to take matters into his own hands.
In 1 Samuel 24:10, he had the perfect chance to kill Saul, yet said,
“I will not stretch out my hand against the Lord’s anointed.”
This wasn’t cowardice; it was faith—a belief that God would defend him in His own time and way.
Not Every Zeal Is Obedience
Sometimes, in our eagerness to "fight for God," we may find ourselves fighting against Him—especially when we act in our own strength or out of fear rather than faith.
True obedience waits on the Lord and recognizes His power to rescue, protect, and vindicate.
"Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him..." (Psalm 37:7)
Takeaway
Psalm 35 reminds us:
Faith allows us to rest, even when wronged.
True spiritual strength is trusting God’s justice, not forcing our own.
Fighting with God requires letting God fight for us.
Let’s learn to step back from battles that belong to God—and trust that He sees, He knows, and He acts in His perfect time.
