Psalms 51 and 52

Psalm 51 - The title of this psalm reveals its cause. After his fall, David seemed to enter a spiritual lethargy, but after Nathan's expostulation, he felt self-loathing and humiliation before God. He sought to demonstrate his repentance to others and leave a lasting testament. At the psalm's start, acknowledging his guilt, he hopes for pardon by reflecting on God's infinite mercy. He expresses this vividly, feeling he deserves condemnation. Later, he prays for restoration to God's favor, aware he merits eternal rejection and loss of the Holy Spirit. He vows to remain grateful if forgiven. At the conclusion, he asserts that granting his request benefits the Church, as David's covenant with God underpins the collective hope for salvation, which would be threatened by his rejection.

Psalm 52 - David wrote this psalm during a time when the deaths of Abimelech and other priests incited widespread fear among the people, making them reluctant to support him. Meanwhile, Doeg reveled in the success of his report. Despite these troubling circumstances, David finds strength in his faith and speaks out against the callous betrayal of the unscrupulous informer. He reassures himself with the thought that God, as the ultimate judge, will uphold the cause of those who fear Him and bring down the pride of the wicked.