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Psalm 70  
For the director of music. Of David. A petition.

Hasten, O God, to save me; come quickly, LORD, to help me. May those who want to take my life be put to shame and confusion; may all who desire my ruin be turned back in disgrace. May those who say to me, “Aha! Aha!” turn back because of their shame. But may all who seek you rejoice and be glad in you; may those who long for your saving help always say, “The LORD is great!” But as for me, I am poor and needy; come quickly to me, O God. You are my help and my deliverer; LORD, do not delay.

For ten years of his life David ran from a jealous King Saul. When he finally succeeded Saul as king there were many people who tried to bring David down, including his own son. David was often praying prayers of desperate petition.

The word “petition” literally means, “to bring to remembrance.” David requested that God see his plight and come to his aid. He desired that God remember him in his time of need. Note the urgency: “Hasten, O God, to save me.” “Come quickly, Lord, to help me.” “Come quickly to me, O God.” “Lord, do not delay.” The danger was imminent. Waiting was not an option.  

There are things in our lives that are on a timeline. We pray and wait patiently. And there are things in our lives that need urgent attention. Like a person caught in the rapids of a river desperately trying to survive, we need help…now! Don’t hold back on your urgent requests. We can say at the same time: “The Lord is great!” and “Lord, do not delay.”

Father, today I am barely hanging on. I am losing my weakened grip. I am exhausted. I feel like giving up. I am tempted to give in. O, Lord, do not delay. I am poor and needy. Come quickly. You are my help and deliverer. Lord, do not delay. In Jesus’ name. Amen.