A Theology of Prayer - Struggles in Prayer

Study 18

Text: Psalm 5

IN CLEAR AND DIRECT CONTRAST TO WICKEDNESS

As much as the Psalmist David described the wicked, he ponders his own lifestyle. He knows that he must lead a life that is distinctly different from that of the wicked. What is an acceptable lifestyle? Let us ponder the following five frank and personal considerations David offered concerning his personal life.

"But as for me, I will come into Your house
In the multitude of Your mercy;
In fear of You I will worship toward Your holy temple.
Lead me, O Lord, in Your righteousness
Because of my enemies;
Make Your way straight before My face."
Psalm 5:7-8

1. Avoiding self-righteousness

"In the multitude of Your mercy…"

David carefully avoided the problem of self-righteousness. He was most conscious of his personal need of the mercy of God. Had it not been for the mercy of the Lord, anyone might fall and become wicked.

2. A life of worship

"In fear of You I will worship toward Your holy temple…"

How does one respond to the mercy of God outpoured? David felt that an appropriate response would be one of "worship." As he grew in knowledge and faith, so he also cultivated a deep sense of love for God's house (temple).

3. A life of righteousness

"Lead me, O Lord, in Your righteousness…"

Worship is vital. However, a person must seek to cultivate a life of righteousness. Thus David found himself crying out to the Lord for His leading in life. With all his heart he wanted to lead a life that was marked by righteousness!

4. A life of prayerful dependence on God

"Lead me, O Lord, in Your righteousness because of my enemies…"

David was ever conscious that there were enemies who would like to see him fail in life. The harsh reality of his life's circumstances caused him to lead a life of prayerful dependence upon the Lord!

5. A life of Divine involvement

"Make Your way straight before my face…"

The Psalmist David was not asking the Lord to make his life easier or simpler. He was just asking the Lord to make His way clear for David to comprehend. He will do his part to walk in the way that God would reveal to him. The way the Lord revealed to him may be difficult, but David would still attempt to follow, just as long as he knew which way to walk!

~ Pastor Charlie Tan ~