Psalms 38:20
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 38:20
20 They also that render evil for good are mine adversaries; because I follow the thing that good is.
Chapter Context
Psalms 38 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of grace, prayer, judgment. Written during various periods (c. 1000-400 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Temple worship utilized these compositions across various periods of Israel's history.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-22: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Psalms and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Psalms 38:20
20 They also that render evil for good are mine adversaries; because I follow the thing that good is.
Analysis
They also that render evil for good are mine adversaries; because I follow the thing that good is. David laments the injustice of receiving evil in return for good. The Hebrew verb "render" (shalam, שָׁלַם) means to repay, recompense, or requite—indicating deliberate, unjust reciprocation. Instead of gratitude for David's kindness, his enemies responded with hostility and opposition.
"Mine adversaries" (satan, שָׂטַן) is the same word later used for Satan the accuser, denoting hostile opponents who actively oppose and accuse. The root meaning is "to oppose" or "to be an adversary." David's enemies weren't merely indifferent but actively antagonistic despite his good treatment of them.
"Because I follow the thing that good is" (radaphi-tov, רָדְפִי־טוֹב) literally means "my pursuing of good." David's commitment to righteousness became the very reason for opposition—a pattern seen throughout Scripture where godliness provokes persecution (2 Timothy 3:12). This verse prophetically points to Christ, who perfectly rendered only good yet received ultimate evil (the cross) in return. Jesus quoted Psalm 35:19 (a parallel passage) in John 15:25, identifying with David's unjust suffering. Believers following Christ must expect similar treatment, returning good for evil as Christ did (Romans 12:17-21, 1 Peter 2:21-23).
Historical Context
Psalm 38 is one of seven penitential psalms, composed during a period of severe physical affliction and social isolation. The superscription "to bring to remembrance" suggests liturgical use for confession and remembrance of sin. David likely wrote this during Absalom's rebellion (2 Samuel 15-18) or another time when physical suffering coincided with betrayal by those he had befriended.
The historical pattern of receiving evil for good marked David's relationships. He spared Saul's life repeatedly, yet Saul pursued him relentlessly. He showed kindness to Mephibosheth (Jonathan's son), yet faced accusation from him. He treated Absalom with paternal mercy, yet Absalom rebelled and sought his death. These experiences of betrayal were preparation for the Messianic King who would perfectly fulfill this pattern.
The early church recognized this psalm as prophetic of Christ's passion. Jesus, who went about doing good and healing all oppressed by the devil (Acts 10:38), was rewarded with crucifixion. The religious leaders He came to save became His chief adversaries. This historical-prophetic pattern warns believers: following Christ in doing good guarantees opposition from those who hate the light (John 3:19-20).
Reflection
- When have you experienced the pain of receiving evil for good, and how did you respond?
- How does Christ's example of suffering unjustly while doing good provide both comfort and a pattern for your response to betrayal?
- What does it reveal about human nature that pursuing good often provokes adversaries rather than allies?
- How can you guard against bitterness when those you've helped turn against you?
- In what ways should this verse shape your expectations in ministry and relationships with unbelievers?
Cross-References
- Evil: Psalms 35:12, Jeremiah 18:20, 1 John 3:12