David begins this psalm with a prayer: “O God, listen to my cry! Hear my prayer! From the ends of the earth, I cry to You for help when my heart is overwhelmed.” There are times in our lives when we are overwhelmed; every human experiences this at times during their lives, some more than others. How should we respond when this happens to us? David gives us a good example in this psalm.
First, David doesn’t question God about his problem. He finishes verses 2 through 4 by turning his problem over to God, recognizing that God is his source for his needs; “Lead me to the towering rock of safety, for You are my safe refuge, a fortress where my enemies cannot reach me. Let me live forever in Your sanctuary, safe beneath the shelter of Your wings!” David must have written this while Saul was out to kill him. He was mentally and emotionally upset, but he recognized that only God could keep him safe.
Second, in verse 5, David writes, “For You have heard my vows, O God. You have given me an inheritance reserved for those who fear Your name.” David reminded God of what He said, i.e. David would be the next king of Israel. By faith, David understood that God does not go back on His word. David could have asked, “why are You letting this happen to me if I am to be king?” But he didn’t; he simply stated his purpose in life.
Third, David prayed for Saul’ “Add many years to the life of the king! May his years span the generations! May he reign under God’s protection forever. May Your unfailing love and faithfulness watch over him.” Verses 6-7. This is a great illustration of what Jesus taught: “But I say, love you enemies. Pray for those who persecute you! In that way, you will be acting as true children of your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:44-45 (NLT).
David closes with a thankful heart. “Then I will sing praises to Your name forever as I fulfill my vows each day.”