Psalm 22:24 – “For he has not despised or scorned the suffering of the afflicted one; he has not hidden his face from him but has listened to his cry for help.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse offers hope and assurance: God does not turn away from those who suffer. Instead, He listens and responds to their cries. David, the psalmist, reminds us that God doesn’t despise or ignore people in their affliction. Even in the midst of deep suffering or sorrow, God is attentive to His people. He does not withdraw or hide from them. Instead, He hears and answers, showing His compassion and faithfulness to those who call upon Him. This verse reflects the comfort that even in our darkest moments, God is near and attentive to us.
Historical Context
Psalm 22 is often considered one of David’s most intense psalms of lament. It begins with anguish as David expresses feelings of abandonment, but it gradually transitions into hope and trust. This verse marks a shift in the psalm, as David realizes that God has not forsaken him. Historically, people in ancient Israel looked to God for deliverance in times of distress, believing that He would not turn His back on His people. This verse reflects the faith of Israel in a God who is merciful and kind, ready to help His people when they are in need.
Theological Implications
Theologically, this verse highlights God’s compassion and responsiveness. It portrays a God who is deeply concerned with human suffering and who does not ignore those in distress. The verse reveals God’s nature as one who listens, who is close to the brokenhearted, and who desires to be present with His people. This truth can be a profound encouragement to believers, reminding them that God is not distant or indifferent to their pain. He is actively engaged in the lives of His people, even in times of hardship.
Literary Analysis
This verse serves as a pivotal point in Psalm 22, where the tone shifts from despair to hope. The language is personal and intimate, as David speaks about God’s response to “the afflicted one.” This term suggests someone deeply burdened, but it also emphasizes the personal relationship between God and the individual. Phrases like “not hidden his face” and “listened to his cry” convey closeness and care. Structurally, this verse provides a moment of reassurance after a series of verses filled with distress, helping to guide the reader from lament to a recognition of God’s faithfulness.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Psalm 34:18 – “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” This verse reinforces the idea that God is near to those who are hurting.
- Psalm 9:12 – “He does not ignore the cries of the afflicted.” This verse shares a similar sentiment, affirming that God hears and cares for those in distress.
- Isaiah 41:10 – “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.” This verse emphasizes God’s constant presence with His people, especially in times of trouble.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Psalm 22:24 is a reminder that God sees and hears them, even when they are struggling. It provides assurance that they are never alone in their suffering. This verse encourages believers to cry out to God, knowing He will not turn away. For many, it’s easy to feel isolated or forsaken in difficult seasons, but this verse reaffirms that God is compassionate and responsive. It invites Christians to approach God with their pain and trust in His attentiveness, knowing He is willing to meet them in their need.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse directly connects to God’s love and kindness. A loving God is one who draws near, especially in times of suffering. Here, we see God’s heart for the afflicted—He does not despise them or ignore their struggles. Instead, His love moves Him to listen and respond. This is a picture of divine love that is actively engaged and willing to bear the burdens of His people. God’s love is not distant; it is present and compassionate, offering support and comfort in the most challenging times.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Psalm 22 is often seen as a prophetic psalm that foreshadows the suffering of Jesus on the cross. In Matthew 27:46, Jesus echoes the opening of Psalm 22 when He cries out, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” This verse, Psalm 22:24, reflects the eventual deliverance and hope that Jesus brings. Jesus’ suffering on the cross assures us that God understands our pain and that He is with us in our suffering. Because of Jesus, we have the promise of God’s presence with us always. Hebrews 4:15 also speaks to this, saying Jesus is able to sympathize with our weaknesses, having endured suffering Himself.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does knowing that God does not ignore our cries for help affect your relationship with Him?
- Have there been times when you felt God was distant? How does this verse encourage you in those moments?
- What does this verse reveal about God’s character, especially His compassion and attentiveness?
- How can you bring your own burdens or the burdens of others to God, trusting in His love and care?
- How does Jesus’ experience of suffering help you connect with God in your own struggles?
Psalm 22:24 reassures us that God is always near, ready to listen, and compassionate toward those who are suffering. It calls us to remember that God’s love is steadfast, and He is ever attentive to our cries, offering comfort and support as we walk through life’s challenges. This verse invites us to trust in His presence and to know that, even in hardship, we are not alone.