Psalms 69:26
For they persecute him whom thou hast smitten; and they talk to the grief of those whom thou hast wounded.
Psalms 69:26: "For they persecute him whom thou hast smitten; and they talk to the grief of those whom thou hast wounded."
This verse expands the psalmist’s lament to describe how his enemies not only pursue him but compound the harm by mocking the wounded and grieving. The imagery of God “smitting” (afflicting or chastening) someone and enemies taking advantage of the punished person’s misery is language common to ancient covenant faith. The psalmist recognizes that God permits discipline for the righteous, yet the enemies exploit that weakness. The phrase “they talk to the grief” conveys malicious glee at another’s pain, a cadence of cruelty that would be particularly painful for someone already suffering. Culturally, honor and shame shaped social perception; to mock a wounded person undermined communal ethics and justice. The psalm expresses a righteous appeal for divine justice and protection against those who twist suffering into a platform for cruelty.
Theologically, the verse probes the problem of evil and the integrity of God’s discipline. It acknowledges that God’s chastening of the righteous may be misread or exploited by others, leading to further harm. It invites readers to trust that God’s justice extends beyond visible success and that the wicked will face reckoning, even if delayed. The broader biblical witness calls for mercy and restraint in judgment, yet also upholds the reality that wrongdoing against the vulnerable will not go unchecked (see Psalm 94; Romans 12). The verse also echoes the cry that God “sees” the afflicted and will defend them, reinforcing the covenant faithfulness of God toward those who suffer.
Today, we may witness co-workers, neighbors, or communities turning pain into ammunition against the vulnerable. This verse challenges us to resist shaming the afflicted and to condemn cruelty that hides behind “humor” or “legitimate grievance.” Practical responses include standing with those who suffer, offering practical help, and calling out cruelty when seen—whether online or in person—without mirroring it. If you have experienced unjust mockery or shaming, seek supportive communities, healthy boundaries, and, if needed, professional counsel. Pray for justice and for wisdom to respond with grace. This verse also encourages self-reflection: are we quick to exploit someone else’s pain for personal gain or to prove a point? May we instead embody compassion, with a longing for repentance and healing in our relationships and institutions.
Cross-References: Psalm 35:15; Psalm 109:2-5; Proverbs 24:17; Isaiah 54:4-8; Romans 12:19