Chronicles of a Journeyman

Psalm 22

A desperate psalm of plea for deliverance by a God who is known to deliver, yet who appears indifferent to the psalmist’s prayers and pleas.

1-5: When God feels far and uncaring

6-8: And one feels worthless and helpless

9-13: As though given over by God

14-18: To be trampled and oppressed 

19-21: Yet one calls again to the LORD

22-24: Who is worthy of praise and awe

25-27: And whose testimony endures

28-31: In all generations among the nations

This psalm of David expresses faith in God through continuous praise of his goodness and glory amid unanswered prayers. David has an unwavering witness to the LORD’s trans-generational power and righteousness while earnestly pleading for help and rescue from his own dire situation. 

This psalm is probably the best known Messianic psalm (a psalm that foretells the coming of the Messiah). Jesus quotes its opening line while on the cross, and many sections of it aptly describe his experience on the cross and were quoted in reference to Him. 

This testifies to the divine inspiration of the psalms. Although they applied to the author in their situation, many of them also foretell God’s eternal salvation plan for humanity.

The psalm ends with a prophetic declaration about the LORD’s everlasting kingdom. No matter what happens, our God remains enthroned and unchanged forever. Amen.