Psalm_70
Scripture
Psalm 70:4
Let all who seek You rejoice and be glad in You; And let those who love Your salvation say continually, “Let God be magnified.”
Observation - What does it say?
This Psalm is titled a song of remembrance, and is copied almost word for word from Psalm 40. The repetition may have been purposeful, as the Matthew Henry Commentary explains, “may be of use sometimes to pray over the prayers we have formerly made to God upon similar occasions, which may be done with new affections.”
Understanding - What does it mean? As a kid in elementary school, I remember having nothing but animosity for “Matt.” He was the closest thing I had, at the time, to an enemy. He was better than me at sports, excelled in school, had an budding acting career, and the girl I “liked” was more interested in him. To top it off, he was persistent in teasing me. There were days that I wanted him to disappear, and I’m sure I made this desire known to God, on more than one occasion. I prayed this every week.
When this Psalm was written, David was in a time of need and seems to be at the mercy of his enemy. Yet he still pray’s to let God be glorified. Despite his situation, David still finds joy in the Father. His first response is to turn to God, his lowly state perfectly juxtaposed by God’s greatness.
As I was reading this, I found myself dwelling on the David’s request that God confuse his enemies. I began to wonder how many times that I would have been on the other end of that prayer. I wonder how many people that I have caused to pray for my confusion. While David’s prayer definitely displays godly character, how many times have I prayed something similar and had nothing but selfish gain in mind.
God is interested more in us bringing glory to Him, than he is worried about who is coming to tear us down. He is more interested in us leaning on him, than he is of us winning arguments with the who discourage us. And why shouldn’t I trust Him, he created the whole earth and yet has time to listen to my prayers.
Life Application