It is for your sake that I have borne reproach, that shame has covered my face. I have become a stranger to my kindred, an alien to my mother’s children.
It is zeal for your house that has consumed me;
the insults of those who insult you have fallen on me.
When I humbled my soul with fasting,
they insulted me for doing so.
Answer me, O Lord, for your steadfast love is good; according to your abundant mercy, turn to me. Do not hide your face from your servant, for I am in distress—make haste to answer me. Draw near to me; redeem me; set me free because of my enemies. ~ Psalm 69:7-10. 16-18
The Psalmist is in trouble and wants help now. He seems to have no problem laying out to God God's fault in all of his woes.
And he also has no problem begging for help now. Immediately. He is in deep distress.
On his deathbed, Martin Luther is reported to have said: "We are all beggars. This is true."
The writer of this Psalm might agree.
It is tempting when we are in such need to pray with many specific words. To make sure we have it all covered; to mention everything that needs fixing in our life.
But maybe all we need is to beg.
Help.
Have mercy.
Answer me.
I need you.
Now.
Amen.
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