Psalms 70:1-5

Make haste, O God, to deliver me; make haste to help me, O Lord.

A pattern suppliant

It is the “fervent” prayer that is effectual, and “effectual” prayer that “availeth much.” Importunity prevails where indifference fails. This prayer not only expresses fervour, but likewise expectation; faith’s vision was strong, and confidence was unwaveringly vigorous; so that no sooner had the request gone up from David’s soul to the “Court of Heaven,” than he expected to see the Lord hasting to his assistance. We have here a pattern suppliant--

I. Oppressed with need (Psalms 70:5). Prayer is the utterance of want; the cry of distress; the pleading of contrite dependence and weakness; more acceptable to God than the vaunting Pharisee’s boast, “I thank Thee that I am not as other men.” The Christian is pre-eminently a man of prayer. It is the atmosphere in which his soul breathes, moves, and keeps its being.

II. Earnestly seeking help (Psalms 70:1).

1. Help, in deliverance for himself.

2. Help, in confusion and overthrow of his enemies. The more vivid the realization of need, the more fervent the entreaty for help. God, a refuge in time of trouble, and fervent prayer the swift feet to bring us into it.

III. Mindfulness of others (Psalms 70:4). A beautiful petition from a beautiful spirit. Though in deep distress himself, yet!m remembers others, and seeks for them gladness of heart and usefulness of life. Selfishness is very narrow in its supplications. Piety is magnificently catholic and comprehensive in its appeals. (J. O. Keen, D. D.)