In Times Of Need

[bluidkiti]

Psalm 70

There are times in life when everyone needs help. I'm often reminded of this living in Ketchikan, Alaska. We talk about "hunkering down" before a big storm blows through. It's not uncommon to get three or more inches of rain a day, combined with gusts of wind in excess of 40 mph. In such conditions, no matter how prepared one might seem to be, unforeseen things happen. At such times, it's not uncommon for neighbors and strangers to lend a hand. What a gift! What a blessing!

We see this same need for help in Psalm 70. Aware of mounting troubles and approaching enemies, the psalmist lifts up a prayer to God acknowledging his situation. "Hasten to me, God" (Ps 70:5). The noteworthy part of this psalm is that even as the psalmist cries for help, in the same breath comes the assurance that God is not far away. The psalmist knows who it is who will provide the help without delay.

Lord God, may we always turn to you for help in times of need, knowing that you are never far off. Amen.

Keith Anderson

Psalm 70 (NRSV)

1 Be pleased, O God, to deliver me. O Lord, make haste to help me!
2 Let those be put to shame and confusion who seek my life. Let those be turned back and brought to dishonor who desire to hurt me.
3 Let those who say, "Aha, Aha!" turn back because of their shame.
4 Let all who seek you rejoice and be glad in you. Let those who love your salvation say evermore, "God is great!"
5 But I am poor and needy; hasten to me, O God! You are my help and my deliverer; O Lord, do not delay!