David was having a problem in his life; he was worried and confused because he had no idea of how to handle this problem. David wanted to ask God how to handle this situation but did not want to sound like he was complaining.
He began his prayer by reminding himself of how great God is. He praised God by examining nature. In verses 1-6, David looked to the sky. Who but God could make such a beautiful sight; this was no accident of a “big bang” to him. How could something so majestic come about by chance? He states that while they are silent in their display to man’s ear, they speak loud volumes to all the world. Look at the sun; it is radiant like a bridegroom or a great athlete ready to run a race. It follows its course each day from its rising to its setting and never loses its way. It provides heat to keep humans, animals, and vegetation alive and revives us from the cold of night.
In verses 7-11, David remembers the impact of God’s word in his life; he writes of each item and expresses its benefits. God’s word he says revives his soul, gives him wisdom, brings joy to his heart, and gives him insight for living. He goes on to say there is no expiration date for seeking God’s wisdom, each of God’s laws is just and more desirable than gold, sweeter than honey, and gives warning and reward to those who obey.
Now, after reminding himself of God’s greatness, David presents his problem to God. David has experienced the depth of temptation to sin and is frustrated with his inability to deal with and overcome the temptation. As human beings, we live very frustrated lives because we cannot share the depths of our temptations with others, not because we lack the ability but because we don’t want others to know how much evil is within us. In verses 12-14, David says, “I don’t even know how much evil is in me. Cleanse me from this evil and don’t let me give into the evil I know is there”. What is the goal of living David desires? He expresses it in verse 14, “May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be pleasing to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer”.
For Christians, dealing with the evil within us requires humbling ourselves, admitting God’s greatness and goodness, and asking (continually) for His help. For non-Christians, they must struggle with this evil in their own strength. Is there any question why there is do much evil in the world?