Key Scripture: Psalm 41:12 "As for me, You uphold me in my integrity, And You set me in Your presence forever."

Psalm 41 is a psalm of David that seems to be about his own personal experience while also describing the personal experiences that Christ faced. Like many of the psalms, one could read it as if the whole thing described the things He went through or the way He felt. Psalm 41:1-3 is about David's recognition of how God takes care of the one who takes care of the needy. God seems to sustain and restore the one who is caring for those in need.

In verses 4-9, David recognizes his need for God for two reasons. One is because he has sinned against God and needs God's grace. Secondly, he needs God because he has many enemies that have risen up against him. This section is so interesting because it fits the life of Jesus so well. Jesus Himself even quotes from Psalm 41:9 in John 13:18 as if this passage was written specifically about Him. Both David and Jesus had men rise up against them to accuse them falsely; they even had some of their closest and most trusted "friends" betray them.

In verses 10-13, David writes of how he trusts in the Lord despite all those who rise up against him for destruction. David is confident in his relationship with the Lord, and he holds tight to the promises of God. I find it interesting that David recognizes God's favor upon him by the sheer reality that his enemies have not actually overtaken him. He understands that no matter who rises up against him or whatever his circumstances are, that standing with God is what matters most. Both David and Jesus cared for those who were in need. They stood faithful in times of trouble and were men of integrity. David repented of his sin, and Jesus never sinned. Both were hated by many, and they were both betrayed by people they loved. Both David and Jesus were able to overcome the enemy.