What does "hasten, O God, to save me" reveal about David's faith? Text under consideration Psalm 70:1: “Hurry, O God, to save me. O LORD, come quickly to help me.” Setting of this cry • Written by David “for the choirmaster,” indicating public worship use. • The psalm is a shortened version of Psalm 40:13-17, showing David returned to these words when danger resurfaced. • The heading “A petition” tells us it is a focused plea, not general praise. What “hasten” conveys • Urgency—David feels pressed by enemies (Psalm 70:2-3). • Confidence—he believes God can act at once. • Intimacy—he speaks directly to God, not about Him. Faith qualities revealed • Dependence: David does not marshal human resources first; he calls on God immediately (cf. 1 Samuel 17:45). • Expectation: “Hurry” presumes that God hears and will respond (Psalm 62:5-8). • Bold access: He approaches the LORD without hesitation, reflecting the covenant promise of Exodus 34:6-7. • Persistence: Reusing this prayer years later (Psalm 40 → Psalm 70) shows a habit of continual reliance (Psalm 55:17). • Submission: He asks for deliverance yet leaves the method and timing with God (Psalm 70:4, “May all who seek You rejoice”). Supporting Scriptures • Psalm 31:2 — “Incline Your ear to me; rescue me speedily.” • Psalm 143:7 — “Answer me quickly, O LORD; my spirit fails.” • Isaiah 64:4 — God “acts on behalf of those who wait for Him,” underscoring that quick help still comes to those trusting. • Hebrews 4:16 — “Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence,” echoing David’s boldness. Lessons for believers today • Bring needs to God first, and do so urgently. • Pray with expectancy rooted in God’s proven character. • Cultivate a reflex of faith: past deliverances fuel present confidence (Psalm 70:5). • Bold petitions honor God; they confess He alone can save and He delights to answer. |
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