A Theology of Prayer - Struggles in Prayer

Study 34

Text: Psalm 10

THE DANGER OF FOCUSSING ON THE WRONG THINGS

It is easy to get caught up with wrong thoughts. The psalmist found himself becoming more and more absorbed by his thoughts concerning the wicked. He was getting worked up and upset as he thought about how the wicked person seemed to be getting away with his misdeeds.

"His ways are always prospering…"
Psalm 10:5

"He has said in his heart, 'I shall not be moved;
I shall never be in adversity"
Psalm 10:6

"He has said in his heart, 'God has forgotten:
He hides His face; He will never see"
Psalm 10:11

The psalmist was badly affected by his thoughts. The danger of focusing on the wrong things was hurting him badly.

RE-FOCUS: A BADLY NEEDED STEP

Wisely, the psalmist shifted his thoughts and his focus on the Lord, in order to break away from the distress that sought to take hold of him.

"Arise, O Lord!
O God, lift up Your hand!
Do not forget the humble.

But You have seen, for You observe trouble and grief,
To repay it by Your hand.
The helpless commits himself to You.
You are the Helper of the fatherless"
Psalm 10:12, 14

1. A Plea on behalf of the humble

The psalmist turned to God in intercessory prayer! His concern was for "the humble" and "the helpless." Surely God would not turn a deaf ear to the cries of the fatherless?

2. An important exercise of Faith

The psalmist had to exercise his faith in God! He held on to his knowledge and his faith in God.
a) That God has seen the oppressive acts of the wicked
b) That He will respond and "repay (the wicked) by His hand"

NEVER LOSE FOCUS

In the spiritual battle against wickedness, we must learn this vital principle. We must never lose focus. The wicked may seem to have the upper hand. But this is not true. God is in absolute control at all times!

~ Pastor Charlie Tan ~