In what ways can we apply "answer me quickly" in urgent situations? The Cry That Cuts Through the Noise “Answer me quickly, O LORD, for my spirit fails; do not hide Your face from me, lest I become like those who descend to the Pit.” (Psalm 143:7) Why This Plea Matters • David is exhausted, cornered, and sensing life slipping away. • His urgency shows faith, not panic—he knows exactly where help comes from (Psalm 121:1-2). • The phrase “answer me quickly” teaches that speed in prayer is appropriate when danger is present (Psalm 70:1; 69:17). Living Out “Answer Me Quickly” in Urgent Moments 1. Speak God’s Name First – Begin with “LORD,” acknowledging His sovereignty before stating the crisis (Psalm 18:6). 2. State the Need Without Polishing It – David’s language is raw: “my spirit fails.” Imitate that honesty; God prefers sincerity over eloquence (Psalm 62:8). 3. Ask for Immediate Intervention – “Quickly” is not disrespectful; it shows dependence. Echo it when time is slipping away (2 Kings 20:2-5). 4. Anchor the Request in His Character – Appeal to His faithfulness and righteousness as David does earlier in the psalm (Psalm 143:1). 5. Reject Fatalism – David declares what will happen “lest I become like those who descend to the Pit.” Spell out the consequences you fear, inviting God to change them (Jonah 2:2-6). 6. Keep Moving Toward Obedience – While waiting, align actions with what you’ve already heard from God (Psalm 143:10; James 1:22). 7. Recall Prior Deliverances – Rehearse past rescue stories to strengthen present faith (Psalm 77:11-12). 8. Maintain Expectant Watchfulness – Stay alert for God’s answer; it may arrive through means you didn’t foresee (Acts 12:5-11). Common Urgent Settings & How to Apply the Verse • Medical emergencies: Cry out audibly, then trust medical professionals as instruments God can use. • Family crises: Gather everyone, read Psalm 143:7 aloud, and voice the specific need together. • Spiritual oppression: Combine the plea with declarations of Christ’s victory (Colossians 2:15). • Financial collapse: Bring the numbers before God, naming the shortfall and asking for “daily bread” (Matthew 6:11). Guarding Faith When Answers Tarry • Remember God’s timetable differs from ours (2 Peter 3:9). • Re-read the psalm’s closing confidence: “For Your name’s sake, O LORD, revive me” (Psalm 143:11). • Refuse bitterness; choose hope anchored in Christ’s resurrection (Romans 8:32). Final Encouragement Urgent prayers like “Answer me quickly” merge desperation with trust. Each time you utter them, you join the chorus of saints who have discovered that the God who hears speedily also acts wisely—and never too late. |