Any reading of the psalms reveals that David turned to the Lord any time he was facing severe trials or was in deep anguish. Many of David’s subjects probably envied the life that he lived. To them, he couldn’t possibly have the problems that they faced. Yet, David’s writings revealed the great pressures and dangers that he faced.
Often, people will look upon a person who is rich and powerful and think, “Oh, I wish I could be like him. Why, he lives the good life. He doesn’t have to face the problems that I have to face!” What a false impression that is! Everything has its price and problems. Money and position do not automatically bring happiness. In fact, the opposite can be true.
Whether rich or poor, young or old, problems will always loom in life; and the only answer is to turn to the Lord for guidance and rescue. David knew that, and he seldom forgot to present his petitions before God.
Psalm 70 is a cry for help. In fact, David saw his need as being immediate. In verse 1 he wrote, “O God, hasten to deliver me; O LORD, hasten to my help!” Today people may pray for rain or no rain, they may pray to lose 10 pounds, or have a successful Gospel Meeting; but David was praying for his life! In verse 2 David wrote, “Let those be ashamed and humiliated who seek my life; let those be turned back and dishonored who delight in my hurt.” David had enemies that were actively seeking his downfall or death.
One can’t help but wonder if a person, a Christian, today would take the time to pray in such a situation. Too often prayer is the last resort, or it is done after safety has been achieved. But here, David wrote his petition while his life was in danger. THAT is true trust in the Lord!
Verse 4 indicates David’s great faith and trust in his God. “Let all who seek You rejoice and be glad in You; and let those who love Your salvation say continually, ‘Let God be magnified’.” Simply because David saw that his life was in danger from his enemies did not keep him from thinking upon the power and mercy of the Lord.
Throughout the long centuries, Christians have died for their faith in Jesus Christ. They paid the ultimate price, because they knew that, in the Lord, there was a far greater reward. David believed that even without the added revelation of the Good News about Jesus Christ.
Christians have been truly blessed, but with great blessing and privilege comes great responsibility. All Christians should ask themselves, “How strong is my faith? Do I believe in the promises of the Lord enough to die for Him?” Let all rejoice that there is hope in the Lord in spite of the enemies found in this world.
In verse 5, David wrote, “But I am afflicted and needy; hasten to me, O God! You are my help and my deliverer; O LORD, do not delay.” David was the King of Israel, yet he saw himself as having nothing. David knew (and oh do all Christians need to learn this today!) that his wealth rested on his relationship with God. If the revolt by Absalom, David’s son, had succeeded, all of his wealth and power in the kingdom would have vanished. Yes, physical worldly power and assets can disappear overnight. Only a relationship with God will stand the test of eternity.
There are many concerns on the part of Christians today concerning the path this nation is taking. Powers hostile to God seem to be growing stronger. Terrorism is a real threat. Immorality seems to be spreading like an infection.
But when enemies threaten to overwhelm the children of God today, each Christian man and woman can turn to the plea that David made so many centuries ago – ” O God, hasten to deliver me.” That prayer was heard then, and it will be heard today. <James Shelburn>