Psalm 22: A Prophetic Cry and the Suffering Savior
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“My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” — Psalm 22:1
These are some of the most haunting words in Scripture. Though first spoken by David, they were later echoed by Jesus as He hung on the cross.
Psalm 22 is more than just a personal lament—it is one of the most vivid prophetic Psalms pointing to the suffering, crucifixion, and victory of the Messiah. In this blog, we’ll explore this powerful chapter, see how it foretells Christ’s death, and reflect on what it means for us today.
The Cry of the Forsaken (Verses 1–21)
Feeling Abandoned
“My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (v.1)
David expresses deep pain and isolation, crying out to a seemingly distant God. This same verse was quoted by Jesus in Matthew 27:46, showing the connection between David’s suffering and Jesus’ own agony on the cross.
Mocked and Rejected
“All who see me mock me; they hurl insults, shaking their heads: ‘He trusts in the Lord,’ they say, ‘let the Lord rescue him.’” (vv.7–8)
This verse parallels the exact mockery Jesus received during His crucifixion (Matthew 27:39–43). It reminds us that Jesus endured public humiliation and spiritual loneliness for our sake.
Pierced Hands and Feet
“They pierce my hands and my feet.” (v.16)
Centuries before crucifixion was used as a form of execution, David wrote these prophetic words. Jesus' hands and feet were literally pierced during His death on the cross (John 20:25–27).
Dividing Garments
“They divide my clothes among them and cast lots for my garment.” (v.18)
This prophecy was fulfilled when Roman soldiers gambled for Jesus’ clothing at the foot of the cross (John 19:23–24).
The Turn to Praise (Verses 22–31)
Psalm 22 dramatically shifts from despair to victory.
Praise in the Assembly
“I will declare your name to my people; in the assembly I will praise you.” (v.22)
After the suffering comes a bold declaration of praise—just as Jesus rose from the dead and revealed Himself to His followers, declaring God's power and love.
Nations Will Worship
“All the ends of the earth will remember and turn to the Lord.” (v.27)
This global vision of worship points to the Great Commission and the spread of the gospel to every tribe and tongue (Revelation 7:9).
It Is Finished
“They will proclaim His righteousness… He has done it.” (v.31)
Just as Jesus cried “It is finished” (John 19:30), David ends this psalm declaring the work complete. God’s redemption plan was fulfilled.
Fulfillments of Psalm 22 in Jesus' Life
| Psalm 22 | Fulfilled in Jesus |
|---|---|
| Psalm 22:1 – “Why have you forsaken me?” | Matthew 27:46 |
| Psalm 22:7-8 – Mocked and insulted | Matthew 27:39-43 |
| Psalm 22:16 – Pierced hands and feet | John 20:25-27 |
| Psalm 22:18 – Divided garments | John 19:23-24 |
| Psalm 22:31 – “He has done it” | John 19:30 |
What It Means for Us Today
Psalm 22 shows us that:
✅ Jesus understands our suffering
✅ God’s plans are revealed in His Word
✅ Pain is not the end of the story
✅ Our Savior triumphed over the grave
✅ All nations will worship the risen King
When you feel abandoned, overwhelmed, or attacked—Psalm 22 is your reminder that Jesus has already walked through the valley, and because of Him, you are never alone.
Final Thought
Psalm 22 begins with suffering but ends with hope. It begins with despair but ends in triumph. It starts in darkness but moves toward the light of global praise.
This is the journey of the cross—and the story of the Gospel.
So today, whether you're in a valley or on a mountaintop, know this:
He has done it. (Psalm 22:31)
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