A Theology of Prayer - Struggles in Prayer

Study 63

Text: Psalm 18

AN INTERESTING OBSERVATION

In the midst of David's notation about how the Lord equipped and strengthened him, he made a most interesting observation.

"You gentleness has made me great"
Psalm 18:35c

This text gives us an idea as to how the Lord must have instructed David. He was no military commander who yelled at His troops! He was a Master-Trainer who knew just how to bring out the best in a soldier! There was just the right touch of gentleness that made all the difference.

David fought and won many battles. In victory, he remained humble. He had learned well from his Teacher! His greatness was attributed to the way the Lord trained him!

TWO VITAL ELEMENTS

In all battles, both physical and spiritual, two elements must always be carefully observed. There is the human element. There is also the Divine element. Let us ponder this text that highlights the Divine aspect.

"You enlarged my path under me,
So my feet did not slip."
Psalm 18:36

1. The human element

Of course, David had to do his part. Warfare, whether physical or spiritual, will always see us deeply involved in the struggle against win and wickedness.

2. The Divine element

David could not help but give thanks to God for the help that he received.

a) "You enlarged my path under me"

This phrase is a cryptic description of how God came to his rescue when times were hard! There must have been situations in his life, where if God had not been there with him, he might well have been slain! God undertook for David. Where the path was narrow and difficult, God enlarged that path!

b) "So that my path did not slip"

The result of God's divine assistance is predictable. David declared gratefully that "his path did not slip." Slippery and treacherous paths were made firm!

NOT ALONE IN OUR SPIRITUAL BATTLES

How thankful we should be to know that God would never send us out to battle for Him, without also backing us up! His Presence is right there with us in the thick of battle. Let us not feel that we have come to the end of our resources. Let us never feel that our reserves of strength have been exhausted! That is never true! God's divine help will be given. We are never alone in our battle against evil!

~ Pastor Charlie Tan ~