The Cry of the Righteous
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Rev. Osei Kwabena Nkrahene | March 3 2026 | Psalm 22:24–31
KEY VERSE: “For he has not despised or abhorred the affliction of the afflicted, and he has not hidden his face from him, but has heard, when he cried to him.” (Psalm 22:24, ESV)
MESSAGE:
Psalm 22 is an individual lament arising from deep distress caused by hostile and unfaithful people, including those who should have shown compassion. The psalm later became central to the crucifixion narrative and is rightly treated as Messianic.
Matthew, writing with a Jewish audience in view, connects this psalm to the suffering of Christ. Psalm 22:18 appears in the casting of lots for Jesus’ garments (Matthew 27:35). Psalm 22:7 is reflected in the mocking of Christ (Matthew 27:39). Psalm 22:8 is echoed in Matthew 27:43. Most strikingly, Jesus voices Psalm 22:1 in Matthew 27:46.
Believers, both individually and collectively, experience moments of distress and spiritual questioning. We ask where God is. We struggle with silence. Psalm 22:24 assures that God does not despise the affliction of His people. He hears the cry of the righteous.
At the cross, Jesus entered fully into that cry and in His resurrection the Psalm's vision of vindication and proclamation found its fulfilment. Deliverance followed suffering. The closing verses anticipate testimony and worship among the nations. During Lent, this psalm reminds us that God hears, acts, and brings His redemptive purposes to completion. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
When you feel unheard or overlooked, bring your cry honestly before God. Read Psalm 22 in its entirety and trace its movement from lament to praise. Refuse to silence your faith in difficult seasons. Hold firmly to the assurance that God hears and responds in His time. Let your testimony follow your deliverance.
PRAYER:
Lord God, You do not despise the affliction of Your people. You hear our cries and remain attentive to our distress. Strengthen our faith when we feel weary. Anchor our hearts in the assurance of Your ultimate deliverance. Teach us to trust You until praise rises again. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING
DAILY word study: HEARD
The Hebrew word, shamaʿ translated “HEARD” means more than auditory perception. It carries the idea of attentive listening that leads to response. In Scripture, when God “hears,” He engages. He responds in covenant faithfulness.
Psalm 22:24 assures us that God’s hearing is active and purposeful. He does not ignore the cry of the afflicted. His hearing leads to vindication, restoration, and testimony.
Reflect on this:
Do you believe that God’s hearing includes His action? How does this shape the way you pray in distress?
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