Contradiction with Matthew 5:44
While Psalms 31:13 speaks of fear and plotting by enemies, Matthew 5:44 advises to love enemies and pray for those who persecute you, contradicting the call for concern or fear.
Matthew 5:44: But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
Contradiction with Luke 6:27
Psalms 31:13 highlights the perception of treachery, whereas Luke 6:27 urges doing good to those who hate you, offering a remedy of love rather than focusing on treachery.
Luke 6:27: But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you,
Contradiction with Proverbs 24:17
While Psalms 31:13 conveys fear and distress over enemies' actions, Proverbs 24:17 discourages rejoicing when enemies fall, promoting a sense of compassion or restraint instead of fear.
Proverbs 24:17: Rejoice not when thine enemy falleth, and let not thine heart be glad when he stumbleth:
Contradiction with Romans 12:14
Instead of a focus on fear and plotting enemies as in Psalms 31:13, Romans 12:14 encourages believers to bless those who persecute them, embracing a posture of blessing over retaliation or fear.
Romans 12:14: Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not.
Contradiction with 1 Peter 3:9
Psalms 31:13 underscores the threat of enemies, yet 1 Peter 3:9 advises not to repay evil for evil but to bless, suggesting a stance of forgiveness contrary to the fear expressed in Psalms.
1 Peter 3:9: Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing.
Paradox #1
The contradiction or conflict in Psalms 31:13 could be seen in the struggle between expressing deep personal anguish and the idea of maintaining faith and trust in a higher power. On one hand, expressing fear and feeling surrounded by enemies reflects vulnerability and despair, while on the other, the overall Biblical message encourages trust and faith despite adversities. Balancing these emotions can seem inconsistent for those grappling with both fear and faith.