As we can see from the title, David wrote this psalm after his whereabouts were revealed to Saul by the Ziphites. David had gone there to seek safety but discovered that the Ziphites were unreliable. But then they would have judged things by how they looked, which is always how unbelievers see things. They did not consider whether God had anything to do with David’s plight.
What could David do? He prayed about his circumstances and once again writes down what he prayed for. It looks as if he added the final two verses after his prayer had been answered, so there are lessons there for us about recording answers to prayer and what caused the prayer to be offered.
Why does he pray to God? Obviously he prays about the situation, but that is not the main reason why he prayed. Many pray when in a predicament, but soon forget about the matter if it seems to be solved. The reason David prayed was because he knew God’s character (his name) and that he would vindicate his people (v. 1). In other words, he put his case into the hands of God (v. 2).
How does he pray? The little word ‘O’ is important because it expresses his earnestness. He also prays specifically, detailing the circumstances to God. He does not detail them to inform God; rather he details them because they are the circumstances he is concerned about. But as someone has said, specific prayers get specific answers and general prayers get general answers.
Because he knows the character of God, David can also pray with confidence (vv. 4-5). God has consistently helped him in various troubles and protected him according to his promise that David will yet be acknowledged as king of Israel. This meant that all who opposed him would be punished by God.
The tone changes in verses 6 and 7 to David anticipating making a thank-offering at the tabernacle. Once again, he has been delivered by God, and delivered in a comprehensive way. But he does not want to leave it there. He knows that he is duty bound to keep his vows of acknowledgement, and they were usually done in public, at the tabernacle. After all, why should someone avoid thanking God in a time of worship especially after experiencing his power in an unusual way.
There are lessons for us here. One is to take note of God’s answers to prayer. Another is to tell his people what God has done for us.
No comments:
Post a Comment