Prisoner of Resentment

Read Psalms 60:1–62:12

1. I wait quietly before God, for my victory comes from him.
2. He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress where I will never be shaken.
3. So many enemies against one man—all of them trying to kill me. To them I’m just a broken-down wall or a tottering fence.
4. They plan to topple me from my high position. They delight in telling lies about me. They praise me to my face but curse me in their hearts.
5. Let all that I am wait quietly before God, for my hope is in him.
6. He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress where I will not be shaken.
7. My victory and honor come from God alone. He is my refuge, a rock where no enemy can reach me.
8. O my people, trust in him at all times. Pour out your heart to him, for God is our refuge. Psalm 62:1-8

If you have ever harbored resentment toward a person who attacked your character, welcome to the club. We expect people to treat us with a certain amount of basic respect, and when they don’t, it’s quite natural to resent them.

Often attacked by his enemies, David had every excuse to resent others. Instead of doing that, however, he dealt with the situation in a more positive way. Read Psalm 62 and learn how to handle resentment.

Other themes in this section of Scripture include regaining control when chaos reigns (Psalm 60), and turning to God for security and help (Psalm 61).

David was well acquainted with unjust personal attacks (Psalm 62:3-4), but he made a conscious effort not to harbor resentments or build up anger. Instead, he expressed his feelings to God and reaffirmed his faith. Through prayer, he released the tension of the emotional stress and handed it over to God. David was confident that the Lord would bring about justice, care for his life, and safeguard his reputation (Psalm 62:2).

Choosing this attitude can change your entire outlook on life. You do not need to be held captive by resentment toward others when they hurt you. Instead, trust in God the Rock, and nothing will be able to shake you.