Author/Background Info
This psalm is known as a “penitential psalm.” It’s marked with a deep sense of repentance and mourning. Some scholars attribute it King David, while others think it was written by Ezra while he was in captivity in Babylon.
It seems interesting that writer is so open and honest with his desperate prayer. So much that it’s almost a rare treat for us to read about this kind of praying. Let’s learn from his struggles and how he frames his prayer.
Devotional Thought
The writer starts the psalm with a heart-wrenching cry for help, “Lord, I cry out to you out of the depths of my despair! (Vs 1 TPT) Can you relate to that kind of intense praying? I think most of us can! Although it’s not your everyday kind of prayer, it’s typically seen as “praying at its best.”
Have you ever noticed that there’s something about desperate praying that reaches deep into the heart of God? As strange as it sounds, it almost feels like he’s demanding an answer.
Notice how the writer uses what he knows about God’s nature as he prays, “Hear my plea for mercy…Lord if you measured us and marked us with our sins, who would ever have their prayer answered…your forgiving love is what makes you so wonderful.” (Vs 3,4 TPT) See how he appeals to God’s divine qualities with words like: mercy, forgiveness, and love?
Next, take note that he’s not only praying, but he’s also watching, “This is why I wait upon you, expecting your breakthrough…I long for you more than any watchman would long for the morning light…I will watch and wait for you.” Vs 5,6 TPT) Have you learned how to “watch and wait” as you pray”? You see, not only should you pray, but you should also learn to keenly “watch” for God’s response.
Start by looking around you. Try to sense what God might be saying. For instance, notice things in the natural that seem to indicate his “hand at work.” Also, listen to your spirit and see what he’s saying deep inside of you.
Keep in mind that Improving your prayer life is a lifelong journey. Keep yourself encouraged and keep a learning attitude!
When we learn how to “watch and pray,” we become co-laborers with God. Isn’t that how it should be? Isn’t that what prayer’s all about? The answer is a resounding yes!
It’s a spiritual exercise that’s worth pursuing!
Wow!! This was exactly what I needed to hear today, thank you!!