Psalm 123:3

Have mercy on us, O LORD, have mercy, for we have endured much contempt.

Study Bible

Have mercy on us, O LORD, have mercy
This plea for mercy is a common theme throughout the Psalms, reflecting a deep dependence on God's grace and compassion. The repetition emphasizes the urgency and desperation of the request. In the Hebrew context, "mercy" (חָנַן, chanan) implies a heartfelt compassion and favor that is undeserved. The use of "LORD" (YHWH) signifies a personal relationship with the covenant-keeping God of Israel. This cry for mercy can be seen as a type of Christ, who embodies God's ultimate mercy through His sacrificial death and resurrection. The plea echoes the prayers of other biblical figures, such as David in Psalm 51, who sought God's mercy after his sin with Bathsheba.

for we have endured much contempt
The psalmist speaks to the experience of scorn and derision, which was a common plight for the Israelites, especially during times of exile or oppression by surrounding nations. This contempt could be both external, from enemies, and internal, from fellow Israelites who had turned away from God. Historically, Israel faced contempt from nations like Babylon and Assyria, who mocked their faith and trust in God. This phrase connects to the suffering servant motif found in Isaiah 53, where the servant endures scorn and rejection. It also prefigures the mockery and contempt Jesus faced during His earthly ministry and crucifixion, as seen in the Gospels. The endurance of contempt is a call to remain steadfast in faith, trusting in God's ultimate justice and vindication.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Psalmist
The author of this psalm, traditionally attributed to David, represents the voice of the community seeking God's mercy amidst scorn and contempt.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, to whom the psalmist directs his plea for mercy.

3. The Community of Believers
The people of Israel, who are enduring contempt and are in need of divine intervention and mercy.

4. Oppressors
Those who hold the psalmist and his community in contempt, representing the external pressures and scorn faced by the faithful.

5. Jerusalem
While not explicitly mentioned in this verse, it is often the central place of worship and the community's gathering point in the Psalms.

Teaching Points

Understanding Mercy
Recognize that mercy is an unmerited favor from God, a central theme in our relationship with Him.

Enduring Contempt
As believers, we may face scorn for our faith, but we are called to respond by seeking God's mercy and strength.

Humility in Prayer
Approach God with a humble heart, acknowledging our need for His mercy and grace.

Community Intercession
Like the psalmist, we should intercede for our community, asking God to show mercy to those enduring hardship.

Trust in God's Character
Trust in God's unchanging nature and His willingness to extend mercy to those who earnestly seek Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the psalmist's plea for mercy in Psalm 123:3 reflect our own need for God's mercy in daily life?

2. In what ways can we identify with the psalmist's experience of enduring contempt in today's world?

3. How does the concept of mercy in Psalm 123:3 connect with Jesus' teachings in the New Testament?

4. What practical steps can we take to cultivate humility in our prayers, as demonstrated by the psalmist?

5. How can we support and pray for our community when they face scorn or contempt for their faith?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 51
This psalm also emphasizes a plea for mercy, highlighting the need for God's forgiveness and cleansing.

Lamentations 3
The theme of enduring suffering and seeking God's mercy is echoed, emphasizing hope in God's faithfulness.

Luke 18:9-14
The parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector illustrates the humble plea for mercy, similar to the psalmist's cry.

James 4:6
This verse speaks to God's grace to the humble, aligning with the psalmist's humble request for mercy.

Hebrews 4:16
Encourages believers to approach God's throne of grace with confidence to receive mercy, resonating with the psalmist's plea.