Reading through this Psalm, we can identify in many ways with an older man who is calling on God for help in time of trouble. In this prayer, we see how the man (1) presents his situation to God (vs. 2, 4, 9 – 13), (2) praises God in difficulty (vs. 8, 14, 19, 22, 23), (3) declares God’s faithfulness as he has experienced it over time (vs. 5-7, 17, 20), and (4) recognizes his utter dependence on God as sustainer and in control of even his enemies (vs. 2 – 4).
And throughout this time of distress, he re-iterates his commitment to tell of God’s greatness, glory, righteousness and splendor – in fact the reason for seeking deliverance is so that he could continue to “proclaim [His] might to another generation, [His] power to all who come” (vs.15-18).
May we find encouragement and direction for our day as we read the prayer of this man that loved God, delighted in Him and wanted everyone to be aware of God’s beauty. That was the purpose of his life even in old age. The hope in finding help from God was to continue declaring His great works.
May we be so captivated with the greatness of God that our prayer even in this time of difficulty would parallel that of this old man.
We can be assured that God will, in every situation, work His perfect will and that our answer, our reward, our hope and our joy is Jesus in heaven.