What does Psalm 41:2 mean?

David continues to describe the blessings that come to the person who is mindful of the disadvantaged (Psalm 41:1). This is spoken in much the same way as a proverb: a general-case statement of wisdom. Several proverbs note that those who follow God's will are less likely to suffer harm (Proverbs 8:32–36; 12:28), but this is not meant as an absolute promise. Good people are not made invincible. Yet here, David makes a connection between his adherence to God's goodness and God's choice to preserve him through hardships and danger. The first verses of this psalm establish that principle, while the rest is David's confidence that God will not let him fall to his enemies (Psalm 41:11–12).

This psalm was probably written when David's son Absalom and his followers were bent on usurping David from the throne (2 Samuel 15—18). In this passage, David mentions those who seek his end (Psalm 41:5; 2 Samuel 17:1–2) and plot against him (Psalm 41:7; 2 Samuel 15:13–15). He also notes an instance of deep, personal betrayal (Psalm 41:9; 2 Samuel 15:12). Yet David held the assurance that they would not succeed.