Old Testament Reveals the New Testament

Psalm 22 vividly reveals the depth of David’s suffering. The intensity of his anguish is evident as he cries out to God for deliverance. David viewed himself as utterly insignificant, labeling himself as a worm. Conceivably the lowest image one could use to express feelings of humiliation and neglect. Yet even during such overwhelming pain, David knew where to turn. He called upon the Father, crying, “My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?” The very words Jesus later spoke from the cross in Matthew 27:46: “And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani? that is to say, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?”

Psalm 22:18 also speaks of garments being divided and lots cast for clothing, a prophecy fulfilled in the crucifixion of Christ. This act embodied a deeply humiliating experience, as stripping someone of their clothing on the cross robbed them of dignity. Matthew 27:35 records this fulfillment: “And they crucified him, and parted his garments, casting lots: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, They parted my garments among them, and upon my vesture did they cast lots.”

Through David’s suffering, he foreshadowed what the Messiah would endure centuries later. While David faced intense trials, he trusted that God would deliver him from his enemies. In the same way, the Messiah endured suffering with confidence that the Father would ultimately bring victory.

Consider this, just as God was faithful to deliver David and Jesus, He remains faithful to us today. We will face difficult seasons, endure painful moments, and sometimes feel like giving up. Yet we must remember that the God we serve is able and willing to deliver. No battle is too great for Him to overcome. When we turn our struggles over to Him and trust in His power, He will work all things out according to His will.