The Lord Hath Heard
In Psalm 6, David is being “attacked” by his enemies. They have worn him down so much that he is weak and vexed, v.2, weary, v.6, and grieved, v.7.
He’s been groaning and crying profusely, v.6. Death and the grave have become present realities, v.5, as it appears he has no way out.
Saul’s determination to kill David and to turn his men against him could certainly have brought David to this point.
What can we glean from David’s prayer that will help us when we pray?
Seek Mercy. In v.1-2, David begins his prayer by seeking mercy from the Lord. He knows the Lord rebukes and chastens those whom he loves, Rev 3:19. Yet, he asks the Lord not to rebuke him in anger and chasten him in hot displeasure. That would be impossible to bear. We need to be right with God when we pray.
David’s asking the Lord to heal and save him, v.2, 4. Without elaborating on the doctrinal application of these verses to Israel at the Second Coming of Jesus Christ, we must at least recognize that healing and salvation are connected in Christ’s dealings with Israel, Jer 17:14, 30:7, 17.
Don’t Faint. In v. 3, David asks, “O Lord, how long”? The Lord is never in as much of a hurry as we are. His timing can be excruciatingly long in our misery. David is so discouraged that he starts talking about death and the grave. But he didn’t quit praying and seeking God’s mercy.
Cry Tears. In v.6-7 David made his bed to swim and watered his couch with tears. In this he was like Christ, Heb 5:7. Much of our praying is not sincere. I’ve seen people at the lowest points of their lives crying over their loss. They cannot hide the tears. We need to be more fervent. The effectual fervent prayer…
Carry Through. In v.8-9 David said, “the Lord hath heard…”. He knew the Lord had heard his prayer and that he was going to answer it. He said, “the Lord will receive my prayer”. This is like getting a notice that your request has been granted before you actually see it granted.
David could say to his enemies “Depart from me”, and “Let all mine enemies be ashamed…”. You have to stay with some prayers persistently until you are finally assured that your prayer is answered.
Conclusion: David was, indeed, delivered from all his enemies, in his own country and abroad. God answered his prayer. And he will answer Israel’s prayer as they suffer terribly at the hand of their enemies before Jesus comes.
We must take a lesson from what David wrote and apply these truths to our prayers in times of distress and suffering.