In Psalm 142, I was pretty hard on David because he was in a desperate situation; David was actually running and hiding for his life from King Saul who wanted desperately to kill his son-in-law. But it was a good illustration to point out that most of us at points in our life have felt the same desperation. This psalm is a continuation of David’s journey in darkness.
In verse 2, David acknowledged his sinfulness as a typical human being. “Don’t put Your servant on trial, for no one is innocent before you.” I believe the hardest thing for any human being to do is to acknowledge the he, she or we are sinners.
One political leader of the United States stated during a political discussion, “I will tell my friends about this and they will all be surprised to learn that we are sinners.” Another political leader of the USA stated he never felt the need to ask God to forgive him for anything he had done.
In verse 4, David wrote, “I am losing all hope; I am paralyzed with fear.” And in verse 7, David wrote, “Come quickly, Lord, and answer me, for my depression deepens.” We all go through times when it seems God has left us alone to find our own way. Our hearts cry out, “where are You Lord”, but no answer seems to come.
But as we read through this psalm, we see glimmers of David’s hope. “I remember the days of old. I ponder all Your great works and think about what You have done. I lift my hands to You in prayer. I thirst for You as parched land thirsts for rain. . .Let me hear of Your unfailing love each morning, for I am trusting You. Show me where to walk, for I give myself to You. . .Teach me to do Your will, for You are my God. May Your gracious Spirit lead me forward on a firm footing.”
David remained in hiding for many years. Finally, Saul was killed in battle, and David was released from his fear. I imagine his heart and maybe his voice singing for joy a hymn like, “Then sings my soul, my Savior God to Thee, how great Thou art, how great Thou art”, not because of Saul’s death, but because of his new freedom. And this should be the theme song of praise for all believers: How Great Thou Art!!!