There is a more complete picture of the Antichrist in this psalm than in the other three in this group of four psalms. This may be set against Absalom's rebellion against his father. At that time, Ahithophel counseled Absalom against David. This is another psalm of "instruction" on dealing with the darkest times in life.
v.1-2. The situation is desperate because a friend has betrayed him. So, the complaint is like that of a loud noise.
v.3-4. David was fearing for his life because his friends had deserted him. This will be how it will be during the Tribulation.
v.5-6. David was betrayed by Ahithophel, the Lord Jesus Christ was betrayed by Judas Iscariot, and the whole nation of Israel will be betrayed by the Antichrist in the future. It is always painful to be rejected and betrayed by those we know.
v.7-8. Even those who have experienced fellowship with God have moments when they want to escape their problems and pressures.
v.9-11. The city that was supposed to be holy was brought down by dangerous corruption inside. Often, the main problems people have come from within, not just those pressures from without.
v.12-14. Opposition and insults from enemies are not uncommon, and we expect them. When they come from those we trust, they cause anguish. Sometimes, we need to be confronted by friends who seek to help us. David and Ahithophel typify this picture of betrayal by a believer. The Antichrist will deliberately deceive those who trust him.
v.15. David's word regarding Ahithophel is similar to what people say today—"Go to hell." That awful expression contrasts with what the Lord Jesus prayed for those who despitefully used Him and instructs us to do the same.
v.16-19. David begins to pray three times a day. When we are in danger, we often pray more than ever. God hears and answers in His own way to bring the desired results.
v.20-21. The Antichrist is a liar, as is the devil from the beginning. Ahithophel, pretending to be David's friend, was plotting against him. This is a picture of the Antichrist yet to come as he plots against Israel.
v.22. The best thing we can do when enemies and burdens come is to cast them on the Lord. The Lord knows how to deal with our enemies. Israel will turn to the Lord in the future because there is nowhere else to turn.
v.23. How are we going to live? How are we going to respond to deceit and hate? What are we going to do when betrayed and wronged? "I will trust in the Lord?"