Do you ever feel overwhelmed by life’s challenges, wondering where to turn for help?

Psalm 86 teaches us that in times of distress, we can depend on God’s unfailing love and faithfulness.

Key Verse: “In the day of my trouble I will call upon You, for You will answer me.” – Psalm 86:7 (NKJV)

Background Context: Psalm 86 is a heartfelt prayer of David, expressing his deep dependence on God amidst his troubles. This psalm is characterized by a plea for mercy, a declaration of trust in God’s goodness, and a commitment to praise His name.

Psalm 86

A Psalm of Supplication and Trust.

A Prayer of David.

     1Incline Your ear, O LORD, and answer me;
For I am afflicted and needy.

2Preserve my soul, for I am a godly man;
O You my God, save Your servant who trusts in You.

3Be gracious to me, O Lord,
For to You I cry all day long.

4Make glad the soul of Your servant,
For to You, O Lord, I lift up my soul.

5For You, Lord, are good, and ready to forgive,
And abundant in lovingkindness to all who call upon You.

6Give ear, O LORD, to my prayer;
And give heed to the voice of my supplications!

7In the day of my trouble I shall call upon You,
For You will answer me.

8There is no one like You among the gods, O Lord,
Nor are there any works like Yours.

9All nations whom You have made shall come and worship before You, O Lord,
And they shall glorify Your name.

10For You are great and do wondrous deeds;
You alone are God.

11Teach me Your way, O LORD;
I will walk in Your truth;
Unite my heart to fear Your name.

12I will give thanks to You, O Lord my God, with all my heart,
And will glorify Your name forever.

13For Your lovingkindness toward me is great,
And You have delivered my soul from the depths of Sheol.

14O God, arrogant men have risen up against me,
And a band of violent men have sought my life,
And they have not set You before them.

15But You, O Lord, are a God merciful and gracious,
Slow to anger and abundant in lovingkindness and truth.

16Turn to me, and be gracious to me;
Oh grant Your strength to Your servant,
And save the son of Your handmaid.

17Show me a sign for good,
That those who hate me may see it and be ashamed,
Because You, O LORD, have helped me and comforted me.

Reflection on Psalm 86:

• A Cry for Mercy: David begins by asking God to hear his prayer and be merciful to him, acknowledging his need for God’s grace (Psalm 86:1-3). He recognizes his own weakness and turns to God as his only source of strength.
• Trust in God’s Faithfulness: David expresses his unwavering trust in God, knowing that He is good, forgiving, and abounding in love to all who call upon Him (Psalm 86:5). This trust is the foundation of David’s prayer, knowing that God will respond in his time of need.
• God’s Unique Greatness: David acknowledges that there is no one like God, who performs wonderful deeds and deserves all glory (Psalm 86:8-10). This recognition of God’s greatness reinforces his confidence in God’s ability to save and deliver.
• A Plea for Guidance: David asks God to teach him His ways so that he may walk in truth and revere God’s name (Psalm 86:11). This highlights David’s desire for a closer relationship with God, built on understanding and obedience.
• Praise and Thanksgiving: Despite his troubles, David commits to praising God with all his heart and glorifying His name forever (Psalm 86:12). He remembers God’s great love and deliverance in the past, which fuels his gratitude and worship.

Summary Key Points:

• Dependence on God: David’s prayer demonstrates a deep reliance on God’s mercy and grace.
• Trust in God’s Character: He trusts in God’s goodness, forgiveness, and steadfast love.
• Commitment to Praise: Despite difficulties, David is committed to praising and glorifying God.

Application: In times of trouble, let us follow David’s example by turning to God in prayer, trusting in His unfailing love and faithfulness. May we seek His guidance and commit to praising Him, even in the midst of our challenges. God’s love and deliverance are constant, providing us with hope and strength.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts full of trust and dependence on Your unfailing love. Hear our prayers and be merciful to us in our times of trouble. Teach us Your ways, O Lord, and guide us in Your truth. May we always remember to praise Your holy name and glorify You for Your wonderful deeds. Strengthen our hearts and give us peace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

This devotional encourages us to depend on God in all circumstances, trusting in His love and faithfulness as we navigate life’s challenges.