Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2600 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before.

In today’s Wisdom Nugget, I’ll guide you on this trek through God’s Word, exploring truths that can transform our lives, one step at a time. Thank you for joining me today as we conclude our thoughtful journey through Psalm 55.

Today, we’re focusing on the closing verses—Psalm 55:20-23. Throughout this Psalm, we’ve seen David pour out his heart in deep anguish over betrayal, yet he continually turns his eyes toward God, reaffirming his trust. These final verses bring clarity to the nature of David’s pain, highlight God’s justice, and encourage us toward authentic trust, even when life feels confusing and painful.

Let’s read Psalm 55:20-23 from the New Living Translation together:

he broke his promises.

21 His words are as smooth as butter,

but in his heart is war.

His words are as soothing as lotion,

but underneath are daggers!

22 Give your burdens to the Lord,

and he will take care of you.

He will not permit the godly to slip and fall.

23 But you, O God, will send the wicked down to the pit of destruction.

Murderers and liars will die young,

but I am trusting you to save me.

David begins this final portion by vividly describing the nature of his deep emotional pain:

In these verses, David pinpoints the source of his distress: betrayal by someone close—a trusted companion. It’s essential to recognize the intensity here. David isn’t simply troubled by enemy armies or hostile nations. Instead, the most profound pain comes from within his own circle, from someone he had fully trusted.

In ancient Israelite culture, friendship was sacred. Covenants, promises, and trust formed the very fabric of relationships, binding families, tribes, and communities. To betray those bonds wasn’t just hurtful—it was deeply shameful, destructive, and dishonorable.

David emphasizes this betrayal vividly: “His words are smooth as butter, but in his heart is war.” Externally, this person appeared loyal, kind, supportive—even comforting. Internally, however, he harbored destructive intent, ready to strike at the first opportunity. David uses another striking image: “His words are as soothing as lotion, but underneath are daggers!” Outward charm masks inward deceit, making the betrayal especially painful.

Historically, scholars often associate Psalm 55 with Ahithophel’s betrayal. Ahithophel was David’s wise counselor, highly respected and trusted. But when David’s son Absalom rebelled, Ahithophel switched allegiance. This personal betrayal deeply wounded David, prompting this painful, heartfelt Psalm.

Imagine a trusted friend you regularly confide in—someone you’ve shared your deepest struggles and secrets with. Then, one day, you discover this person has been secretly working against you, sharing your private conversations, using them to harm you. The pain you’d feel would be immense. David’s situation was similar—he experienced the deep emotional wound of betrayal from someone who once seemed trustworthy.

Have you ever experienced betrayal from someone close? Such wounds cut deeper than physical injury. But Psalm 55 reminds us we’re not alone in these painful experiences. God fully understands our pain and invites us to bring even our deepest relational wounds directly to Him.

In the midst of describing intense betrayal, David suddenly offers profound spiritual advice:

This verse marks a significant turning point. David moves from focusing on his betrayer toward encouraging us—all who experience life’s pains—to trust deeply in God’s faithfulness. Despite profound hurt, David’s ultimate advice isn’t revenge or bitterness, but trust—actively casting burdens onto God.

The idea of “casting burdens” was powerful in the ancient Israelite worldview. It wasn’t passive; it implied actively transferring heavy weight to someone stronger. Just as a traveler might hand over heavy luggage to someone stronger, David advises intentionally giving our heavy emotional and spiritual burdens to God.

He assures us, “He will not permit the godly to slip and fall.” David confidently believes that those who trust God will ultimately remain secure, even amid betrayal, pain, or confusion.

Imagine hiking a long trail, carrying a heavy backpack. After many exhausting miles, a friend who’s stronger, fresher, and eager to help appears, offering to carry your load. You wouldn’t refuse; you’d gratefully hand it over, relieved. God invites us to do the same spiritually—handing Him our burdens, trusting Him to carry what we cannot.

Are we actively casting our burdens upon God? Or are we still carrying the heavy weight of worry, hurt, or bitterness? David reminds us today: release your burdens to the Lord. Trust Him fully. He will care for you and protect you.

David concludes Psalm 55 by reaffirming trust in God’s justice:

David clearly acknowledges God’s justice. He knows God will ultimately deal with evil. Despite the pain he currently experiences, he confidently places the future in God’s hands, trusting divine justice rather than seeking personal revenge.

The phrase “the pit of destruction” in ancient Israel represented a dark, final judgment reserved for the truly wicked—those who rebelled openly against God. David recognizes that, though justice might seem delayed, it is certain. Wickedness will never triumph forever.

He declares, “I am trusting you to save me,” a profound affirmation of faith. David’s pain, anger, and sense of betrayal lead him not to bitterness but to deeper dependence on God. He consciously chooses trust over vengeance, hope over despair, and confidence in God’s righteous timing.

Consider farmers planting seeds. They trust natural laws: what you plant will eventually grow. Evil actions, like seeds, produce inevitable results. Even when justice seems delayed, God’s law of righteousness ensures that consequences will eventually come.

When facing injustice or betrayal, can we similarly trust God’s timing and justice rather than trying to settle scores ourselves? David’s trust inspires us to release anger, bitterness, and revenge, knowing God is perfectly capable of handling justice on our behalf.

Psalm 55:20-23 vividly captures the intensity of emotional pain from betrayal and directs us clearly toward trusting God. David’s honest expression of anguish combined with his steadfast trust provides us an authentic model of how to respond to life’s deepest hurts.

If you’re experiencing betrayal, emotional pain, or overwhelming burdens today, remember David’s advice: Cast your burdens upon the Lord. Trust Him completely. He genuinely cares for you and will faithfully uphold you.

Thank you for joining me today on Wisdom-Trek. May Psalm 55 deepen your trust and reliance on God’s unwavering care.

Until we journey together again, my friends, may God’s wisdom guide your steps, and may His peace fill your heart.

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Thank you so much for allowing me to be your guide, mentor, and, most importantly, I am your friend as I serve you through this Wisdom-Trek podcast and journal.

As we take this Trek together, let us always:

I am Guthrie Chamberlain….reminding you to’ Keep Moving Forward,’ ‘Enjoy your Journey,’ and ‘Create a Great Day…Everyday! See you next time for more daily wisdom!