A Theology of Prayer - Struggles in Prayer

Study 75

Text: Psalm 22

FIERCE ENEMIES

In any kind of battle, physical or spiritual, one must expect that the enemy would be tough and terrible! The psalmist understood the wickedness his enemy was capable of. His description of the activities of the enemy would cause the bravest to think soberly!

"Many bulls have surrounded Me;
Strong bulls of Bashan have circled Me,
They gape at Me with their mouths,
Like a raging and roaring lion."
Psalm 22:12-13

1. "Strong Bulls"

The first symbol utilized was to compare enemies to "strong bulls." The enemy must never be underestimated. He can be very strong indeed!

2. "Strong bulls have circled Me"

Enemies can and will use their minds for the most wicked of purposes! The enemies can gang up together to fight against the righteous! This was the experience of the Lord Jesus when the Pharisees, the Sadducees and the common people ganged up together against Him. They too circled Him like wild and strong bulls!

3. "Like a raging and roaring lion"

As if the first imagery was not sufficient to describe the fierceness of the enemy, a second was employed. This time round, the symbol of a lion was utilized. The king of the beast was described as a "raging and roaring lion."

MORE DESCRIPTIVE PHRASES

The psalmist went on further to employ a third symbol to describe the enemy he faced.

"For dogs have compassed Me;
The congregation of the wicked has enclosed Me.
They pierced My hands and My feet"
Psalm 22:16

1. "For dogs have compassed Me"

The imagery here is that of wild dogs foraging for food. These dogs run in a pack and can be quite dangerous.

2. "The congregation of the wicked"

We have an interesting use of the word "congregation." This word was now applied to "the wicked." They had not congregated for the purpose of worship or doing good. They had congregated for the most foul of purposes!

FINDING STRENGTH IN GOD

The psalmist struggled with his emotions and fought his fears as he faced up to the fact that his enemies were downright wicked! He knew he must find strength in God!

~ Pastor Charlie Tan ~