A Theology of Prayer - Struggles in Prayer

Study 22

Text: Psalm 7

THE PLACE OF "TRUST" IN THE BATTLE AGAINST EVIL

How important is "Trust" in our relationship with God? How important is "Trust" in the battle against evil? It is not without significance that the word "Trust" features most prominently in the Book of Psalms! The following text is just one of many that highlights the place of "Trust."

"O Lord my God, in You I put my trust;
Save me from all those who persecute me;
And deliver me."
Psalm 7:1

The psalmist David teaches us how this trust in the Lord may be exercised. Three thoughts may be highlighted.

1. This sense of trust must be in the Person of the Lord Himself

2. There must be a sense of trust in God for His deliverance from persecutors

3. This sense of trust excludes any attempt to take revenge on persecutors!

THE INTENSITY OF THE CONFLICT

Cush was probably not alone in his battle against David. The psalmist mentioned "persecutors" and the superscription mentioned just one name. Still, it is reasonable to conclude that Cush was probably one of the ring-leaders who gave so much trouble to David. Just how intense was the conflict? Let us ponder what David wrote.

"Lest they tear me like a lion,
Rending me to pieces, while there is none to deliver."
Psalm 7:2

The enemies were likened to a stalking lion. David felt that he was like a prey for the powerful lion. He knew what his wicked enemies would do to him if they ever got hold of him. They would "tear" him apart. They would delight in "rending him to pieces." They would like nothing better than to destroy David. These enemies must have been so powerful that David cried out for divine help, for there was "none to deliver" him out of their power!

If there isn't that special sense of trust in the Lord, the conflict would have caused David to despair! Surely, that is how anyone would feel when he is face to face with a roaring lion!

EXERCISING TRUST IN GOD THROUGH PRAYER

Thank God for the privilege of prayer! How we must learn how to pray much more! In prayer and in trust, the sense of weakness gives way to special strength. In prayer, feelings of despair make way for hope! God will deliver. God will save His children from the powers of evil. David found great strength in and through prayer in his battles against evil. May we be challenged to pray with increasing trust!

~ Pastor Charlie Tan ~