Psalm 70

Read Psalm 70

“Make haste, O God, to deliver me!” David needed help from God. He sought aid against those who wanted to see the king hurt and even killed. David's need was immediate. He asked the Lord not only to stop his enemies, but even that they be “put to shame and confusion.”

This one servant of God looked beyond himself and his immediate crisis. “May all who seek You rejoice and be glad in You!” The answer for David in this time of distress was to worship and enjoy the Almighty One. Rejoicing in God was also the solution for many other faithful servants of the Lord. They too would experience the Lord's salvation and say forever, “God is great!”

These words, “God is great,” need to be more than a slogan. If the god we worship cannot conquer sin and death for us, how great is he or she? Saying that a powerless god is great will not make him worthy of our utmost devotion.

The Lord of heaven and earth is truly great. He saw us in our weak condition and determined to save us. We were like David in his great hour of need. “I am poor and needy; hasten to me, O God!” The King of Glory came from on high. He suffered and died for us. He atoned for our sins. Now He lives forever to intercede for us.

We join with David in holy boldness: “You are my help and my deliverer!” Yet we know that we continue to have immediate needs that require His constant and steadfast love right now. “O Lord, do not delay!”

Prayer from A Book of Prayers

Mighty God, it seems that we cannot wait much longer. Trouble is very near to us. Our confidence remains in You, for You are great. Be nearer than any danger, O Lord.