Psalms 22:24

Psalm 22:24 (KJV) offers a profound declaration of God's unwavering compassion and attentiveness, particularly in the midst of extreme suffering. This verse serves as a powerful turning point within a psalm that vividly portrays the agony and sense of abandonment experienced by the psalmist, yet ultimately affirms divine faithfulness.

Context

Psalm 22 is a deeply significant prophetic psalm, often referred to as a "Messianic Psalm" due to its striking foreshadowing of Christ's crucifixion. The preceding verses lament intense physical and emotional anguish, echoing the cry of "My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?" (Psalm 22:1; Matthew 27:46). In this backdrop of despair, verse 24 shifts the tone, affirming God's merciful presence and responsive nature, even when all hope seems lost. It transitions from a cry for help to a declaration of trust and anticipation of deliverance, showcasing the psalmist's ultimate confidence in God's character.

Key Themes

• God's Unwavering Compassion: The verse emphatically states that God "hath not despised nor abhorred the affliction of the afflicted." This highlights His deep empathy and care for those who suffer, contrasting with any notion of a distant or indifferent deity.
• Divine Presence and Attentiveness: "Neither hath he hid his face from him" assures the suffering that God is not ignoring their plight. His presence is steadfast, and He is actively engaged with their cries. This is a powerful comfort for anyone feeling isolated in their pain.
• The Efficacy of Prayer: The culmination, "but when he cried unto him, he heard," underscores the effectiveness of prayer. God hears the desperate pleas of His people and responds. This theme is central to the biblical understanding of God's relationship with humanity, emphasizing His readiness to listen and intervene.
• Hope in Despair: Despite the profound suffering described earlier in the psalm, this verse offers a beacon of hope, reminding us that God is ultimately a deliverer who does not abandon His own.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew words used convey strong meaning:

• "Despised" comes from the root bazah (בָּזָה), meaning to scorn, disdain, or hold in contempt.
• "Abhorred" is from shaqats (שָׁקַץ), meaning to detest, loathe, or treat as abominable. The double negative emphasizes God's absolute non-rejection of the suffering.
• "Hid his face" (הִסְתִּיר פָּנָיו - histir panav) is a common biblical idiom signifying God's withdrawal or ignoring, often associated with judgment or abandonment. The affirmation that He *has not* done this is a powerful statement of His covenant faithfulness.
• "Heard" is from shama (שָׁמַע), which implies more than just perceiving sound; it means to listen attentively and, often, to respond or act upon what is heard.

Practical Application

Psalm 22:24 provides immense encouragement for believers today facing various forms of affliction and distress. It reminds us:

• God Cares Deeply: Whatever hardship you face, God does not look upon your suffering with disdain or indifference. He sees, He cares, and He is near the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18).
• Prayer is Powerful: Your cries are not unheard. This verse affirms the living reality of a God who listens and responds to the prayers of His people, just as He did for Christ in His suffering.
• Hope Endures: Even in the darkest moments, the truth that God has not hidden His face from you provides a foundation for enduring hope. You are not forsaken. Cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you.

Conclusion

Psalm 22:24 stands as a testament to God's compassionate character and His active involvement in the lives of those who call upon Him. It transforms a psalm of intense lament into a declaration of hope, assuring all who suffer that their affliction is not despised, their cries are not ignored, and their prayers are indeed heard by a faithful God.