John Calvin Commentary Psalms 35:1

"Strive thou, O Jehovah, with them that strive with me: Fight thou against them that fight against me." — Psalms 35:1 (ASV)

Plead my cause, O Jehovah! As David's enemies not only openly sought to take his life but also troubled him with slander and misrepresentation, he pleads for the remedy of both these grievances. In doing so:

1. By appealing to God for His aid in defense of his cause, he implies that he is dealing with wicked and maligning men.

2. By urging God to take up arms, he shows that he was severely oppressed.

It was a very dishonorable thing that this holy man, equally distinguished for his kindness and harmlessness towards all people, and who by his courtesy and meekness had earned the esteem and favor of all, both in public and private, was not permitted to escape the reproach and slander of wicked men. However, it is important for us to know this, as it sets before us a very valuable example.

If even David did not escape the malice of wicked men, it should not seem surprising or strange to us if they blame and malign us.

The injuries they inflict upon us may be severe and painful, but incomparable comfort is offered to us in the thought that God Himself intervenes for our protection and defense against false accusations.

Therefore, even if slanderers should arise and, as it were, tear us to pieces by falsely charging us with crimes, we do not need to be disturbed as long as God undertakes to plead our cause against them.

There can be no doubt that in the second clause of the verse, David implores God to resist the armed violence of his enemies. Essentially, being falsely accused and cruelly persecuted, and finding no help from human sources, the Prophet commits the preservation of his life and his reputation to God.