An Appeal For Deliverance

Psalms 143:1–12
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In this chapter I can’t help but be impressed with David’s brutal honesty about himself. He doesn’t attempt to project positive images about himself but is forthright and objective. Because of his spiritual poverty he’s ready for a mighty work of God in his life and he desperately needs one. He tells us that his enemies are still pursuing him relentlessly and that he is being forced to stay in desert caves for protection (vv. 3-4).

In this Psalm we don’t hear the mighty king of Israel. Instead, we hear the pathetic plea of one who recognizes that power does not come from physical strength or military strategy, but in trusting the faithfulness and righteousness of God. David opens his prayer by making it plain that he does not deserve being heard but he is pleading for mercy. Then he tells how he is being persecuted by his enemies and ends with a plea for deliverance. It is interesting to note how David desires to hear the voice of the Lord in the morning (v. 8). It is evident that he is in desperate danger. The prayer recorded in the last verses of this chapter exhibits a remarkable usage of verbs. His prayer was: “Hear me” (v. 7); “Cause me” (v. 8); “Deliver me” (v. 9); “Teach me” (v. 10); “Lead me” (v. 10); and “Quicken me” (v. 11).

Application

My prayer is for the Lord to fill me with His Spirit today. I need Him to guide me, enable me, teach me, comfort me, and help me as I continue in my pilgrimage on this earth.