Text: Psalm 119:153-160
Key Verse: Plead my cause and redeem me; Revive me according to Your word vs 154 NASU
Different types of prayers are encountered in the book of Psalm. In this passage, the writer made supplications to God. He presented his strong case. He pleaded with God to revive him. Revival here is not referring to spiritual awakening since he was not in a state of spiritual slumber. The Psalmist pleaded that God should give him back his life! “Yes, rescue me and give me back my life again just as you have promised.” TLB
Why did he make supplications to God? He was in sorrow; he was suffering; he was afflicted; he was in trouble; his condition was miserable vs 1. We do not know specifically what the Psalmist’ condition was but his misery could have been about health, finances, hostilities etc. But things were not the way they used to be with him and definitely not on the pleasant side. So, he made his supplications to God.
David used very similar words after he had cut part of King Saul’s skirt during one of Saul’ pursuit: “The Lord therefore be judge and decide between you and me; and may He see and plead my cause and deliver me from your hand.”1 Sam 24:15 NASU. ‘Plead my cause’ vs 154 is a statement that suggests there is a controversy. Some made David look evil in the eyes of Saul so he wanted him dead. But God knew him differently and he alone is the perfect advocate. Perhaps there is a controversy (spiritual or physical) that has brought misery upon someone, your only advocate who can plead your cause or case is God.
This advocate and Judge is merciful. Great are Your mercies, O Lord; Revive me according to Your ordinances. Vs 156 NASU. The best ground to make supplications is on the ground of God’s mercy. Perhaps our actions aren’t justifiable; perhaps we brought the troubles on ourselves. Yet, we can appeal to the mercy of God to deliver and save.
Lastly, the Psalmist made supplication upon this also; Consider how I love Your precepts; Revive me, O Lord, according to Your lovingkindness. Vs 159 NASU. Can we get God’s attention on the ground of merit? Possibly. Hezekiah (2 Kgs 20:3), the Centurion (Lk 7:5) and Cornelius (Acts 10:2-4) all received help because of their good nature and works. But more importantly, it is in the character of God to help those who love and obey Him. “O Lord,” I prayed, “you are a great and awesome God; you always fulfill your promises of mercy to those who love you and keep your laws. Dan 9:4 TLB. Do you love and obey him?
Prayer– May the LORD plead your cause today according to His great mercies. Amen