A Prayer For Guidance And Help

Commentary

There is a good possibility that this psalm was written by David sometime during the rebellion of Absalom. David’s circumstances were serious, and he hardly knew 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. David is not merely mouthing some words but his whole soul is uplifted (vv.1-3). He asks not only for protection for himself but for all of those who love God. 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 (vv. 4-5). To teach is to give specific instruction but to show is to provide an example as well as instruction. David knew better than most people that sin in this life makes it impossible for God to lead and direct (vv. 6-7). He prayed that the sins of his youth might not be held against him (I John 1:9).

David grappled with the heavy issues of life, avoiding denial, and affirming dependence. He had to trust God in the face of his troubles. We find here a meditation on the priorities, principles, and prerequi­sites of the Lord’s guidance in a Christian’s life. A person must be saved (v. 8). Guidance begins with a saving knowledge of the Lord. A person must be submissive (v. 9). If we have our minds made up there is no point in asking God to guide us. Unless a person is committed to keeping the Lord’s commandments there is no point in asking for guidance (v. 10). If we want the Lord to lead us, we must be quick to confess our sins (v. 11).

Application

Instead of demanding answers from God, 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.