A Prayer For Guidance And Help

Psalms 25:1–7
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No one knows for sure when this Psalm was written but there is a good possibility that it was written by David sometime during the rebellion of Absalom. It is for sure that David’s circumstances were serious and he hardly knows which way to turn, so he turns to God in prayer. He asked God to keep his enemies from overcoming him because they opposed what God stood for. If his enemies succeeded he feared that many would think that living for God was futile. His prayer consists of the following:

1. Lord, Protect me (vv. 1-3). David is not merely mouthing some words but his whole soul is uplifted. He asks not only for protection for himself but for all of those who love God.
2. Lord, Pilot me (vv. 4-5). It is  so easy to say that we want God to lead us when really all that we want Him to do is to confirm that we are steering the ship in the right direction. There is a difference between show and teach (v. 4). To teach is to give specific instruction but to show is to provide an example as well as instruction.
3. Lord, Pardon me(vv. 6-7). David knew better than most people that sin in this life makes it impossible for God to lead and direct. It is with this in mind that he prays that the sins of his youth not be held against him (I John 1:9).

Application

I may be tempted to demand answers from God, but David asked for direction. When I am willing to seek God, learn from His Word, and obey His commands, then will I receive His guidance.