This psalm of David is a prayer for the LORD’s mercy and help. David was in grave trouble. His troubles were the result of his own sins. David felt the LORD’s anger and discipline upon his physical, mental, and emotional health as well as his relationships with other people. He confessed that his pain and physical sufferings (3, 7, 10) were God’s wrath on him because of his sin (3, 5, 18). He felt crushed. His heart was anguished. His sin had resulted in inner darkness (10).

David’s relationships had also suffered because of his sin. Friends and companions avoided him. Neighbors kept their distance. His enemies took advantage of his sin and even laid traps to kill him. They gossiped and lied about him. David’s own sin was the cause of his desperate situation.

This Psalm also shows us the only solution available for sin. David came to God in prayer in humble repentance. He confessed his iniquity (18). Though his sin had driven him away from God, David prayed that God would not forsake him but come quickly to help.

We, too, can turn to God in repentance for our sin. Jesus, our Lord and Savior, offers forgiveness and restoration. Come to Jesus. He will surely answer.
Application: Lord, I am troubled by my sin and confess it to you. Please come quickly to help me, my Savior.
One Word: Help me, Lord Jesus!